Albert "Al" Justin Cummings, Jr.

Albert “Al” Justin Cummings, Jr. was born on September 23, 1939, in Texarkana, Arkansas to Mr. Albert J. Cummings, Sr. and Mrs. Essie Mae Cummings (Howard). Albert was the 2nd oldest of their 5 sons (Levester, Vernal, David Lee, and Jimmy Lee “Bo”) and 1 daughter (Linda). The family moved to California when Albert was in elementary school. Albert went on to graduate from Grant Union High School in 1956 where he held a school record in Track and Field.

Albert had 5 children: Rena, Celestine, Albert J. Cummings, III, Stephanie and Tamika. He was a loving father, grandfather “Papa”/“Big Dad” and great grandfather and was greatly loved, respected and admired by his entire family and those who knew him.

Albert was a well-known equestrian rider from an early age. He was also one of the 1st African American Equestrian Show Jumpers to compete at Cal Expo Race Track at the CA State Fair Grounds. He was also skilled at “breaking” horses and “shoeing” them as well. In his “hay days” he could frequently be seen horseback riding through the streets of Del Paso Heights and in parades from Sacramento to Fresno with his “Posse” (Don, Cochise, Rufus, Fred and others). Over the years Albert has introduced many, young and old, to horses and horseback riding.

Albert was a hardworking man with integrity. He held several jobs prior to hiring on with the City of Sacramento as a Sanitation Engineer. He subsequently retired from the city with over 23 yrs of outstanding service. Following his retirement, Albert had more time to dedicate to his passion for fishing and being outdoors. If you ever tried to reach him while he was on the fish bank you’d have heard his recorded voice telling you, “I’m gon fishing.” He often kept busy helping family and friends with various projects. Albert knew how to have a good time and was known for being the life of the party. He talked fast and slick and keep folks laughing. Albert was full of life until his passing on January 09, 2025, at the age of 85.

Albert is preceded in death by his Parents: Mr. Albert J. Cummings, Sr. and Mrs. Essie Mae Cummings; Brothers: Levester, Vernal, David Lee, and “Bo”; and his oldest daughter: Rena.

Albert leaves to mourn his Sister: Linda; his Children: Celestine "Celeste", Albert, III “Pokey”, Stephanie, and Tamika; his Grandchildren: Victoria, Erica, Robert, Meghan, Justin, DaShay, Brandon, Evan, Bri’Yonna and Ty’Jai; his 12 Great Grandchildren; and Garrett, Reginald and Monroe along with a host of other extended family and friends. May his loving memory give comfort to all those who mourn his passing.

In Lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a voluntary donation to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) on your California State Income Tax form in Albert's honor. Please select the "Rare and Endangered Species Preservation Voluntary Tax Contribution Program" on "Line 403" of your California Income Tax Form (form 540). For those living outside of California, please make a donation to your local fish and wildlife organization in his honor.

Thank you, the Cummings Family.