Uretha (Cummings) Critten

Uretha Cummings Critten, a beacon of unwavering faith and boundless love, graced this world with her presence on February 22, 1944, in Dothan, Alabama, and after a life rich with purpose and joy, she returned to her Heavenly home from the same loving community on December 5, 2023.

From her early years, Uretha embodied a spirit of devotion and kindness. She accepted Christ into her heart and became a lifelong member of the Adam Street Baptist Church, which later became known as Greater Beulah Missionary Baptist Church. In her cherished Cradle Roll Sunday School Class, she served with a gentle dedication that touched the lives of many.

Uretha's professional life was marked by dedication and excellence. She retired from DynCrop at Fort Rucker, now known as Fort Novosel, after twenty-three years of service. Her commitment and work ethic were a testament to her character, and her influence extended beyond her immediate circle to touch the lives of her colleagues and community members.

Uretha's interests reflected the depth and warmth of her personality. She was an embodiment of Maya Angelou's words, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Uretha made everyone she met feel valued and loved, truly living up to the essence of a phenomenal woman. Her compassion knew no bounds, and her passion for life was contagious.

Her life was a masterclass in grace, resilience, and unconditional love. She taught us that with faith, compassion, and a generous heart, we could overcome any obstacle. As we celebrate her life, we are reminded of the words of Helen Keller: "What we have once enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us." Uretha's love has become an indelible part of us, and her spirit will continue to guide and inspire.

Predeceasing her in death are her parents: Henry and Mattie Cummings; her beloved daughter: Deborah Ann; four brothers: R.C. Cummings, Willie E. Cummings, David L. Cummings and Johnny C. Cummings; three sisters: Claude Mae Ash, Jerlene Kelly and Rebecca Donald; four special friends: Annie Ray McDuffle, Ida Pryor, Daisy Cummings and Carolyn White.

Uretha's journey on earth was shared with a family that she nurtured with tenderness and strength. She was the cherished matriarch to five loving children: James (Jacqueline) Critten of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Jody (Barbara) Critten of Griffin, Georgia, Vera Critten, Retha Critten and Mark Crittem all of Dothan, Alabama; a proud grandmother to seventeen, a great-grandmother to twenty-six, and a great-great-grandmother to seventeen.

Each generation flourished under her loving care, and her legacy will continue through their lives. Her brother: Wallace Cummings of Dothan, Alasbama and her six sisters: Andry Mae Henderson, Josephine (Willie) Harris, Lena Mae Alford and Bernestine (Wade) Thomas all of Dothan, Alabama, Vera Cox and Mattie Chambers of Columbus, Georgia - along with a tapestry of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends, will carry the torch of her memory, illuminating the path for others as she did.

As we bid farewell to Uretha Cummings Critten, we do so with hearts full of gratitude for the time we were blessed to share with her. Her life was a gift to us all, a reminder that every day is an opportunity to make a positive impact on the world. Let us honor her memory by living our lives with the same generosity of spirit that she exemplified.

To the woman who was a pillar of her community, a treasure to her family, and a friend to all, we say, "Well done, good and faithful servant." Uretha Cummings Critten's story is one of love's triumph, and her legacy will continue to motivate and uplift for generations to come.

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