John Russell Cummins was born on July 27, 1975, in Great Falls, Montana, and completed his earthly journey on April 12, 2025. He had recently returned to Great Falls, where he spent the final year of his life.

John was a quiet soul, often found deep in thought. Though he often described himself as awkward in social situations, he loved being surrounded by the chaos of a crowd and being part of the mayhem. He felt most at peace outdoors, where he shared a strong and comforting connection with nature. John loved shooting guns, fishing, and working on cars—hobbies that brought him joy and calm. He spent his life in search of peace, and we pray that he has now found the solace he longed for, finally free from the demons that haunted him.

He spent much of his youth in the Sandy, Utah area and attended Alta High School. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army. He trained at Fort Knox, later serving at Camp Casey in South Korea, and finally at Fort Hood, Texas. John completed his service with pride and honor, earning the rank of Staff Sergeant before separating from the military. He was proud of his service, and we are deeply grateful for his dedication to defending the freedoms we all hold dear. You have our eternal thanks.

We would like to express special gratitude to Howard Sather for his care, companionship, and love during the last year of John’s life. Thank you, Howard, for being there for him. We’re sending prayers your way!

John leaves behind many family members and friends who are mourning this sudden loss and taking comfort in knowing that he is finally free. He is survived by his wife, Anne Cummins; his sister, Raven WritingBird; his children and stepchildren: Summer Lewis, Maddyson Davis, and Parker Funk; and his nieces and nephews: Creeanna Montes, Elyse Montes, Aliyas Montes, Paisley Writingbird DeHerrera, and his daughter’s mother, Shiela Lewis. He is also remembered by close friends Brent Moser,and Jeremy Vanbibber, who all stood by his side through everything.

John is preceded in death by his loving mother, Linda Killian, whom he adored and missed greatly.

John lived hard and loved deeply. He was guarded, but if you made it into his heart, you were loved completely. He fought a long battle with alcoholism, finding moments of sobriety, but ultimately, the disease claimed his life. We are grateful to everyone who loved, supported, and tried to help him over the years. Thank you.

A fellow veteran shared a message for John: “Rest easy, Soldier. We have your six. Till Valhalla.”

We leave you with this request: Please remember that every addict and alcoholic is loved by someone. We never truly know the demons another person may be battling. Show kindness in all that you do.

We love you, John. Until we meet again.     

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