Marla Cummins

Marla Marie Cummins, beloved mother, grandmother, and nurse, passed away peacefully on September 26, 2025. Born in Chicago, Illinois, to Edward and Arlice Evans, Marla spent her early childhood in the Windy City before moving with her mother and siblings to Tallulah, Louisiana, where she built a remarkable life.

Marla was preceded in death by her parents Edward and Arlice Evans, her loving husband James Michael Cummins Sr., her sister Arlice Mae Headley, and her cherished grandson Peyton Cummins Machen. She is survived by her son James Michael Cummins Jr. and wife Beth, daughter Jaime Michelle Cummins and her beloved grandchildren Brayden Machen, Paul Michael Machen, Conner Machen, Elizabeth Cummins, Kate Cummins, and Willow June, as well as her siblings Edward Evans and wife Becky, Michael “Mike” Evans and wife Gail, Marlin “Bouda” Evans, Charles "Chuck" Wesley Evans and wife Tracy, and sister Marie Ernst and husband Norman.

Marla, her sister, and her mother all pursued nursing together, earning LPN degrees. Driven by a deep passion for caring for others, Marla went on to earn her RN degree while working full-time as an LPN and raising her two young children. She was a modern-day Florence Nightingale, whose heart and hands brought comfort to countless patients. Marla spent most of her career serving the people of Madison Parish, first as a home health nurse and later at Madison Parish Hospital, leaving a lasting impact on both patients and colleagues. Her dedication inspired many nieces to follow in her medical footsteps.

A woman of many talents, Marla was a master gardener and a gifted seamstress, continuing the family tradition of handmade creations for her grandchildren. Her artistic gifts extended to drawing and various arts and crafts, always pursued with love and joy. Marla cherished Christmas above all holidays, delighting in hosting celebrations, decorating her home, and performing in the “12 Days of Christmas,” always proudly singing, “five GOLDEN rings!” Her home was a sanctuary of warmth, comfort, and joy for family and friends alike.

Marla’s greatest joy came from her family, particularly her grandchildren. She was always cheering them on at sporting events and academic ceremonies, forever their biggest supporter. Her bright smile, caring nature, and unwavering positivity turned the hardest days into moments of light.

Visitation will be held at St. Edward the Confessor in Tallulah, Louisiana, on Monday, September 29, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., with full services to follow at 11:00 a.m.

Marla Marie Cummins will be remembered as a loving nurse, devoted mother, and grandmother whose life was defined by generosity, talent, and an unshakable love for family and community. She leaves behind a legacy of care, creativity, and joy that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

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