November 7, 1931 – January 21, 2026
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” — Psalm 23:1
A centered life of Faith, Family, Music and Service.
With heartfelt sadness, the Cummings, Cooper, and Brown families announce the passing of Mrs. Harriet Melita Cooper Cummings, who departed peacefully at home on January 21, 2026. Born in Maryland County, Liberia, to Mrs. Florence E. M. Brown Cooper and Mr. James H. R. Cooper, Sr.
Mrs. Cummings is remembered for her enduring legacy of faith, commitment to family and dedicated service. She was known for her steadfast spiritual beliefs, particularly her confidence in eternal life. She often reflected on life’s transience, referencing it as “just passing through.” Her faith remained central throughout her life, guiding her actions and outlook.
She was married to the late Mr. Matthew A. E. Cummings, Sr.; together, they were blessed with five sons and welcomed several foster children into their home. Mrs. Cummings created a nurturing environment that extended care to both her biological and foster children. As a distinguished educator and lifelong musician, Mrs. Cummings contributed significantly to her community. As an accomplished organist at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Harper City, Maryland County, Liberia, she enhanced the church’s musical program. In her role as a music teacher, she inspired many, including her son Lloyd and grandsons Asa and Alvin Cummings to pursue music. Her influence reached numerous students at The Harper Elementary Demonstration and The Nathan Barnes Sr. Kindergarten Schools and other educational institutions, where she advanced both music and general education.
Following the Liberian civil war, Mrs. Cummings relocated to Spring Valley, New York, residing with her son Harrington and his family. She was supported by Harrington, his late wife Marinda, and granddaughters Asha and Camille. She was an active member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Spring Valley, New York, and also actively participated in The RSVP program and volunteered regularly at Summit Park Elementary School, Spring Valley, New York.
Mrs. Cummings is survived by her only sibling, Mr. James H. R. Cooper, Jr. Esq. (Evita); her five sons: Matthew (Euphemia), Fritz (Patricia), Harrington (the late Marinda), Jenkins (Wede), and Lloyd; her nephew Mr. Edward B. Cummings (the late Rachael), her foster daughters, Mrs. Gertrude Dweh-Brown, Mrs. Minnie Wah-Jallah; along with numerous grand, great-grand, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren and other relatives.
Funeral Arrangements
Saturday, February, 21, 2026
9:00 a.m. – 11:a.m. Viewing/Wake
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Service
St. Luke’s Episcopal Church
1514 15th St. NW
Washington DC. 20005
Livestream link will be posted later.
Family, friends and well wishers who wish to make a contribution may do so via Zelle at (240) 401-7357 or CashApp at $Lloyd20876. Your generosity is sincerely appreciated.
ACCOMODATIONS: Will be posted later.
Contacts:
Matthew Cummings (714) 365-6572
Fritz Cummings (225) 802-0697
Jenkins Cummings (225) 454-5429
Lloyd Cummings (240) 401-7357
