David Ellis Culpepper

**CHANGE IN FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS**

Please note the change of day for Mr. Culpepper's service.
 

Mr. David Ellis Culpepper, 91, of Blackshear, passed away early Wednesday morning, January 15, 2025, at Memorial Satilla Health in Waycross.

Born in Grand Rapids, MI on September 28, 1933, he had lived most of his adult life in Pierce County. After graduating from high school, he went on to receive his bachelor’s degree prior to enlisting in the United States Navy serving during the Korean War.  After returning home, Mr. Culpepper went to work for Eastern Airlines in New York as a mechanic.  He later relocated to Tampa, where he worked for the Tampa Fire Department for several years.  He also worked for several years for the Ford Motor Company.  After moving to Pierce County, he taught auto mechanics at Pierce County High School, from which he retired after many years.  After retirement, he served as a courier for Peoples Bank, which was later bought by The Heritage Bank, and most recently The First.  He loved being outside, working in the yard, and taking care of the church grounds of St Johns Community Church for which he was a member.  One of his most prized possessions, second only to his daughter and granddaughters, was his 1953 Chevy that he restored and showed at car shows and winning numerous trophies.

He was a son of the late Patrick Edward and Bertha Mae Davis Culpepper.  He was also preceded in death by his wife, Janice Verdie Howell Culpepper; a son, Dorrell Culpepper; and all three of his brothers, Gilbert, Doug, and Bruce Culpepper.

Survivors include his daughter, Candy (Howard) Cummins of Orange Park, FL; one granddaughter, Brooke (Mickey) Bozek; 5 great-granddaughters, Layla Grace, Hazel Christine, Savannah Elizabeth, Gwen Holly, and Madeline Lee; and several nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Funeral services for Mr. Culpepper will be held Monday, January 27, 2025, at 11:30 A.M. from the St Johns Community Church.

The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service.

Interment will be in the St Johns Cemetery.

Sympathy may be expressed by signing the online register at www.pearsondial.com.

Pearson-Dial Funeral Home of Blackshear is in charge of arrangements.

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