Delbert Clayton Cummins, known by his family and friends as "Bud", passed away peacefully April 25, 2023, at his home in Mars Hill, NC at age 92.

Bud was born in Pawnee, Oklahoma, on July 13, 1930. His parents were Delmer and Fannie Cummins. He married Sevelta Jean Cummins, a native of Lookeba, Oklahoma. They were married for 62 years. Jean passed away May 10, 2013, at age 82.

Bud's nickname fit him well as he was a buddy to many people throughout his life. His people skills and the many other positive attributes he possessed made him a successful salesman and business owner for many years. Bud, a devoted Christian, and father, was a graduate of Oklahoma State University. He was a Navy veteran and served his country during the Korean War. He was a self-employed entrepreneur most of his life and had an unstoppable work ethic, integrity beyond measure, and deep abiding faith in God.

He enjoyed traveling, camping and the outdoors in general. He loved fishing and was a skilled angler. He seemed most content when he was fishing and soaking in the beauty of God's natural world. He was at ease and happy whether he was finesse fishing with a fly rod for trout on a Missouri stream or casting top water lures for largemouth bass on an Oklahoma pond, or deep saltwater trolling for whatever was biting in the ocean off the Florida Keys.

He was a wonderful father and led by example. It was no surprise the hobbies he enjoyed most, combined with his love of family, became his way of making a living. He owned Cummins Sportsman Center in Enid, Oklahoma for over 12 years. Bud's wife, two sons and daughter were all involved in the business. He was a savvy businessman. He took an old, dilapidated bait and tackle shop and transformed it into a successful recreation vehicle company, selling and servicing a variety of RV's, from tent trailers to motor homes.

In 1980, he sold the business and headed to the Florida Keys, where he pursued his love of fishing and creating friendships. After another dozen years passed, Bud and his wife Jean moved to North Carolina, eventually settling in the town of Mars Hill.

In addition to his parents, Delmer and Fannie, Bud is preceded in death by a son: Del Jeffrey Cummins; a sister: Vella "Peggy" Burns, and brother: Bruce Lee Cummins.

Surviving are his son, Gregory Kent Cummins of Key West, Florida; daughter, Nita Louise Gammon of Mars Hill, NC; brother, Kenny Ray Cummins of Cassville, Missouri; six grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00pm, May 6, 2023, in Bethel Baptist Church of Mars Hill. For those wanting to contribute flowers or floral arrangements please send to: Bethel Baptist Church, 4495 US Hwy 19, Mars Hill, NC 28754.