Francis J. Cummings

Francis J Cummings, MD died peacefully at home surrounded by family on April 7, 2025. He was the beloved husband for 35 years of Laura Young. Frank was born in New Haven, CT on September 6,1940 to Thomas and Mary (Sugrue) Cummings. He was predeceased by his brothers Thomas (Patricia) and Cliff (Patricia) who, along with their families meant the world to him.

Frank was a young child when he contracted polio.  He spoke often of his unique experiences with long hospital stays, attending school via telephone, and enjoyable summers at Camp Hemlock. His admiration for the doctors caring for him inspired his interest in medicine. Despite his significant physical challenges, his life-long love of learning led to undergraduate study at Trinity College, and medical school training at UVA. He chose a career in oncology at a time when this specialty was in its infancy. He came to RI in 1968 and served as a faculty member at Brown Medical School, contributing to the development of the program there. He spent 45 years at Roger Williams Hospital Cancer Center, working alongside many respected colleagues. His academic and clinical career brought national and international travel, honing his knowledge and expertise.

Above all, Frank treasured his family and friends, cherishing the moments shared and the bonds that enriched his life. He moved to Barrington in 1969 and developed important friendships at the Barrington Yacht Club. Memories of adventures and misadventures on land and sea with these friends were fondly recalled throughout his 84 years. Frank loved living in Barrington and participated actively in Little League, the YMCA, and later, the Senior Center and the Barrington Village. He was a communicant at St. Luke's Church. His inspiring legacy is one of self-determination, warmth, and an enduring love for the people and pursuits that brought meaning to his days.

Frank had many hobbies and interests including his electric trains, tinkering with electronics and early computers, boating, and skiing. He participated in a wine group and enjoyed the best restaurants here and in his travels. Frank was a ham radio operator, an interest he pursued after the blizzard of ‘78. In later years his Irish heritage and genealogy research and travel provided many hours of enjoyment.

In addition to his wife, Frank is survived by his cherished and grateful children Todd, Tim, Shannon, Jay, and Ted, and his 3 adored grandchildren; Eliza, Michael and Avery. He is also survived by his first wife Rosalie, his in-laws Thomas, Stephen, Elizabeth, Anthony, Teresa and Susan and their families. Frank was always up for a gathering with extended family and many close friends. He will be remembered by all for his kindness, resilience, and unique sense of humor.

All are kindly invited to a Mass of Christiam Burial on Tuesday, April 15 at 10 AM at St. Luke's Church in Barrington, RI, followed by a burial service at Forest Chapel Cemetery, on Nayatt Rd. Calling hours are 4-6 PM on Monday, April 14 at Smith-Mason Funeral Home, 398 Willett Ave. Riverside, RI 02915.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Friends of the Peck Center for Adult Enrichment or the Village Common of RI would be greatly appreciated. 

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