Ralph Dennis Tummons was born in El Paso, Texas, to Wilda May Tummons (Dibben) and Ralph Lloyd Tummons on August 11, 1944, the eldest of their two sons. He was a beloved father, pawpaw, and great-pawpaw, during his wondrous 78 years of life.

On January 31, 2023, R. Dennis Tummons was welcomed into heaven with open arms by his mother and father. He is survived and surrounded by his two daughters Dennah (Dan) Mallory and Heather (Brian) Smith, two grandsons Zackery Lane and Brady (Rowan) Smith, great granddaughter Stoney Smith, brother Bill Tummons, and numerous other, friends and family.

Dennis graduated from Hillcrest High School in 1962. He was a part of the first graduating class to complete all four years attending Hillcrest. After graduating he worked a few jobs before becoming a member of the Springfield Fire Department in November of 1966, where he held the position of Captain for a number of years. He loved to cook and has thousands of culinary delights to his credit. He was especially proud when his Fire Fighting Friends preferred (or rather insisted) he be the chef of choice at the station. During his thirty-three years as a fireman Dennis accumulated an abundance of stories, heroisms, and lifelong friends. If you were to ask Dennis his purpose in life, it was to be a father and pawpaw. He wasn’t just a pawpaw to his own, there were many affected by his love and selflessness. He was loved and cherished by those around him. Dennis loved dining out, going to flea markets, watching the KC Chiefs and St Louis Cardinals, fishing, and spending time with his grandchildren. He enjoyed sharing those activities with his family, friends, and extended “family members”.

He truly will be missed, but Heaven has definitely gained an angel.