Frankie "Delorise" Cumbie's Obituary
Frankie “Delorise” Cumbie, age 83, of Lithia Springs, Georgia, passed peacefully at her home, surrounded by the loving family she championed throughout her life.
Born to the late Loy Franklin and Hazel Kell McClain, Delorise was Baptist by faith and lived each day with an extraordinary combination of independence, strength, creativity, and generosity. She attended West Fulton High School in Atlanta, where she shined as a majorette and band member—early signs of the energy and joy that would follow her throughout her life.
After high school, she pursued and completed her studies in cosmetology, beginning a career as a beautician. She worked for others before proudly opening her own beauty shop, a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit. Creative by nature, she was also skilled in sewing, served as a stylist for portraits at a photography studio, and later worked as a floral designer at various florists. Her talent, warmth, and eye for beauty touched everything she did.
Delorise’s love of the arts extended to music of all kinds: Motown, country, rock, and gospel and moving to it brought her joy—whether for fun, or while cleaning the house. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and she brought vibrancy and celebration into the lives of those around her.
Her interest in cars began early and grew when she met and married her first husband, James L. O’Neal Jr. (“J.L.”), the father of her daughter Carmon and son Jimmy. She cheered on J.L. at dirt-track and drag races, eventually trying her own hand at racing—winning, of course. During their twelve years of marriage, J.L. launched his car dealership career and O’Neal Cycle Sales, achievements Delorise supported with pride. After their divorce, she waited ten years before marrying again, finding in Jerry Cumbie a true partner and a love worth the wait. Jerry, an accomplished HVAC business owner, enjoyed collecting guns, participating in the shooting sports, 3-D and target archery, and even held a pilot’s license. Delorise supported his passions just as wholeheartedly as she encouraged every dream pursued by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
A profoundly loving and supportive woman, Delorise lifted everyone around her. She encouraged her family at every step, especially in their creative and professional pursuits, nurturing their talents with quiet strength, deep pride, and boundless love. Her legacy lives on in their accomplishments, their courage, and the joy she inspired.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband of 12 years J.L. O’Neal; her loving husband of 39 years, Jerry Cumbie; grandson Casey Williams; and granddaughter Nora Sullivan.
She is survived by her daughter Carmon (Darryl) Williams of Bremen and son Jimmy (Erin) O’Neal of Savannah; stepsons Mike (Alisha) Cumbie of Acworth, Mark (Deidri) Cumbie of Dallas, and Matt (Barbara) Cumbie of Sisters, Oregon; and stepdaughter Melissa Cumbie. Together with Jerry, she is also survived by grandchildren Candice, Chelsea, MezzMyrh, PINATOVA, Heather, and Ashley; and great-grandchildren Gwenivere, Coltyn, Ciara, Axyl, Wyland, Oliver, and Charli. She is also survived by her sisters, Louise Mitcham, Juanita Motes, and Bobbie (Edward) Camp, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.
A woman of tremendous heart and creativity, Delorise will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, her devotion to family, her unwavering encouragement of others’ dreams, and the way she transformed everyday life into something beautiful.
Funeral services for Frankie “Delorise” Cumbie will be held Monday, December 8, 2025, at 12 noon with Rev. Steve Swafford officiating. The family will receive friends from 10 AM until 12 noon. Interment will follow at Mozley Memorial Gardens.
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