Kraig W. Cummings

Kraig Ward Cummings, 80, of Bedford, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, following a recent decline in health. Kraig was born on March 22, 1943, in Dallas, Texas, to the late Melvin Cummings and Lorraine Purdie Cummings.

Kraig was a graduate of the University of Virginia, class of 1965, and American University, class of 1970. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force where he served his country as a F-4 fighter pilot during the Vietnam War. Later in his life he was a V.A. administrator who lived life on the edge. When he could no longer fly jets, he discovered fast cars. Duty and adventure took him around the world. Kraig was a patriot and a man of strong conviction.

In addition to his parents, Kraig is preceded in death by his only brother, Kyeson Cummings.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Frances N. Cummings, son, Larry Cummings (Tammy) of Short Pump, VA; a daughter, Lisa Groulx of Charlotte, North Carolina,; stepdaughters, Laurie Zaryczny (Joey) of Bedford, VA, and Carol Dillard (Keith) of Virginia Beach, VA; and a sister-in-law, Linda Cummings. He was so proud of his many grandchildren and great grandchildren, Meghan, Nina, Kaycee, Samantha, Haley, Allie, Mandy, Cara, Kendell, Kyle, Mitchell, and Nora.

A Celebration of Life will be held in honor of Kraig at Bedford Baptist Church, 1516 Oakwood St, Bedford, VA 24523, on Saturday, July 29th, 2023, at 2 p.m. A reception will follow the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Wounded Warrior Project.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Bedford, is assisting the family.