Dortha Esther Harrington Cummings

Dortha Esther Harrington Cummings, fondly known as Dottie, passed away April 2, 2026, at the age of 87. She was born on Dec. 31, 1938, in Osawatomie, Kan., to Sp D Harrington and Dortha Bridget (Elrod) Harrington. 

She was an only child who embraced family wholeheartedly, building a beautiful life alongside her beloved husband, Claude Dale Cummings. They married on Dec. 31, 1956, and shared nearly 41 years together, raising six children and creating a home that was a sanctuary of warmth and joy. Predeceased by her parents, husband, son Timothy Dale Cummings, stepson Robert Cummings, and sons-in-law Randy Benedict and Jerry Ellis. She leaves behind a legacy of love through her surviving children: Claude Eugene Cummings, Esther (Cummings) Ellis, James (Jim) Cummings and wife Tresa, Terry Cummings and wife Julie, Carol Cummings Smothers and husband Jimmy, and daughter in-law Carrie (Louk) Cummings.

She is also survived by numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

After moving to Springfield, at the tender age of 15, she attended Springfield High School, now known as Central High School. Her career journey began in 1966 at American Laundry, where she relished summers spent with her children. Her career path led her to a fulfilling role as a cook at SMSU (now MSU) in Springfield, from 1986 until her retirement in 2006.

A celebration of life will be held April 17, 2026, visitation will be at 1 p.m. with service following at 2 at Greenlawn Funeral Home North, located at 3506 N National, Springfield. Burial will be immediately after service in Greenlawn Memorial Garden. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Republic Nursing & Rehab and Preferred Hospice for the compassionate care provided to their beloved mother.