Share
Let the family know you care by sharing this tribute.
Robert Allen Cummings, 62, of Salisbury, passed away on Monday, December 18, 2023, at his home in Salisbury, NC. He was born on June 10, 1961, in Christiansburg, VA, to Claudette Miles Burnette and the late Quincy Allen Cummings. Robert was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend known for his warm-hearted nature and inclusive spirit. He was identified as artistically talented as a young teenager and was a 1979 graduate of the NC School of the Arts.
Robert had a unique ability to see beyond societal categories and embrace people from all walks of life. He welcomed everyone into his home with open arms, regardless of their background. His culinary skills were renowned, and he delighted in preparing delicious meals for his guests. From extravagant dishes like beef Wellington to humble bologna sandwiches, Robert’s cooking was a testament to his passion and talent. Late-night gatherings often featured his famous bananas fosters, shared with laughter and camaraderie.
Countless friends were drawn to Robert’s magnetic personality. His home, affectionately known as “The Branch,” became the go-to destination for Friday and Saturday nights. Over the years, it was the backdrop for many shenanigans and the birthplace of cherished memories. Robert’s kindness extended beyond his local circle, as he nurtured meaningful connections with friends from around the world through online communities. His generosity knew no bounds, surprising others with gifts of movies and games on special occasions and even randomly throughout the year.
Robert’s intelligence, wit, and sarcastic humor made him a true original—a genuine wise-ass with an unmatched charisma. His passion for horror, sci-fi, and fantasy movies was unparalleled. He possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of films, effortlessly recalling quotes and identifying obscure references. Mention a movie line or start a sentence with “remember that movie where the guy…,” and Robert would promptly identify the film, often providing additional details about the actors and directors involved.
Robert leaves behind a legacy of family, friendship and laughter that will be deeply missed. His absence will be felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him, including his beloved feline children, Georgie and Quinn.
He is survived by his mother, Claudette Miles Burnette, his sisters Sherry Cummings Coleman (Sam) and Kathy Cummings Tarlton (Gary), his half-brother Thomas Cummings (fiancé Morgan), his step-mother Jo Anne Cummings, his step-sister Angela Zunk, his nieces Shannon Helms and Amy Pittman, his nephews Jimmy Coleman, Quincy McIntosh, and Mitchell McIntosh, as well as his step-nieces Abigail Zunk and Ashlyn Zunk.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of Cabarrus County, 5003 Hospice Lane, Kannapolis, NC 28081, or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
The Cummings family is grateful for the support and services provided by Carolina Cremation. Online condolences may be shared at www.carolinacremation.com as we remember and honor Robert’s life.
Dan says
Very sorry to hear this. I only knew Robert in an online capacity as ‘Jacob Singer’ on CHUD / Trouble City, but he was clearly a great guy, with an incredible knowledge of movies!
My condolences to his family and friends.
Daniel, London, England.
George Altman says
With Bob, “To know him is to love him” was 100% accurate. Our loss is a loss to the world, and I have missed him for many years already since we last spent time together in NYC shortly after we graduated from NCSA. He remains in my heart, a dear friend and gentle, loving soul. I will love him always and forever.
Robert "Tim" Smith says
I am so sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. I was in the North Carolina School of the Arts Visual Arts Program with him. I was a pleasure to have been his classmate.
My condolences to his family, loved ones and friends.
Jeff Brooker says
I was in and out of touch with Bob over the years but I can’t imagine what life would have been like had I not met him. The two of us left NCSA and moved to NYC together. For two young guys it was a pretty exciting time. And scary. There was no safety net. We had a lot of fun, played a lot of music, and made some great friends. We did karate together. Our Sensei was the best man at my wedding. We cried in front of The Dakota the night John Lennon was killed. I met the woman I would later marry in NYC, which I don’t think would have happened without Bob. No way would I have moved to New York by myself. I know his family thought he was nuts at the time for leaving school and moving to the big apple but what a life experience it was. I’m very saddened to hear of his passing. He was one of my best friends in this life. Blessings and condolences to his family. Finally, one morning I woke up in the NY apartment we had shared to find a poem Bob had written. I ended up putting music to it and it turned out to be a pretty good song. I don’t remember much of it now but the first two lines have stuck in my brain. “I had a birthday on the tenth of June, this crazy celebration will be ending soon.” Rest in peace, Bob. 💔🙏🏼