John Cullum.
John Louis Cullum, 79, of Edmonds, Washington, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2026. John was born on June 8, 1947, in Wagener, South Carolina to the late Freddie and Beatrice Cullum. When he was born, an aunt remarked that he looked like a “Jr. Boy”. The endearing nickname stayed with him and was used fondly by his family for the rest of his life.
When John was a young boy, his family moved north to Cleveland, Ohio, seeking a better life and greater work opportunities. It was there that John built the foundations of his legendary work ethic, instilled at a young age when he took a job working at the Northern Ohio Food Terminal. While balancing his work commitments, he excelled as a standout basketball player at East Technical High School. His exceptional talent and drive ultimately earned him scholarships that allowed him to continue both his education and his basketball career at the collegiate level.
After completing his college education, John entered the corporate world and spent the next 13 years building a distinguished career in management at the Bon Marche’ department store. Later, in search of a new challenge, he successfully forged his own path as a business owner, becoming an independent owner operator. A proud and hardworking man throughout his entire life, John dedicated the next 30 years to his business until his retirement.
Beyond his professional success, John possessed a lifelong passion for learning and was an avid reader. He was gifted at imparting wisdom and bringing joy and laughter to any gathering. From an early age, John’s deep, lifelong passion for music began and stayed with him throughout his life. Whether he was relaxing at home or driving his beloved Peterbilt semi, the songs he loved held pieces of his life’s journey and kept his fondest memories alive. Fishing was another favorite pastime, bringing him endless joy through one of life’s simplest pleasures.
John walked through every season of his life led by a quiet yet powerful faith that filled his heart and guided his every step. This deep devotion defined his character, leaving a legacy of pure kindness and goodness that that was obvious to absolutely everyone who knew him. Above all, John will be remembered for his immense heart. Known for dropping off unexpected, thoughtful gifts, he constantly left those around him marveling at his boundless warmth and extraordinary generosity. John’s sunny outlook and engaging personality left a lasting impression on countless lives. He will be dearly missed.
He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife, Carrie Cullum; two sisters, Gloria Morman, of Cleveland, Ohio; Paulette Overton, (Louis) of Austin, Texas; his brother, Phil Cullum (Brenda) of Cleveland, Ohio; brother-in-law, Don Woolley, of Cottonwood, AZ; brother-in-law, Mike Woolley (Cathi) of North Bend, WA; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, who loved him dearly.
