John Ralph Culp

Graveside services for John Ralph Culp, of Gadsden, will be at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 8, 2013 at Forrest Cemetery. Rev. Harvey Beck will officiate. Collier-Butler Funeral and Cremation Services is directing.

John Ralph Culp was born January 11, 1942 in Etowah County. He graduated from Etowah High School and attended Snead State Junior College. He was co-owner of Culp Iron & Metals Co. Inc., Culp Smelting & Refinery Co. Inc., Culp Metals, Culp Welding, Culp Recycling, and Culp Industries.

He thrived on his hard-work ethic and on always being the proper southern gentleman and tried to influence others to do the same. He enjoyed carpentry, raising cattle, yard-work, the “junk-yard” and his physical well-being. He was a loyal member of The Gadsden Track Club and Fitness Plus, and would give Dr. Webb Sledge all the credit for his healthy lifestyle. He loved to watch Auburn, just like his father.

Throughout his life, he was an exemplary man, husband, father, brother, and friend to his family, his employees, business associates, and everyone that was honored to know him. Mr. Culp was a “man of his word!” He gave 100% of himself to the many organizations he proudly served in Etowah County. He was most proud of being President of the Board at The Bridge, Inc. in Gadsden, AL. He truly believed in Tim Naugher and the entire staff to help change people’s lives. He never gave up on anyone; he always encouraged everyone to be their very best. John Ralph Culp never wanted notoriety, he selflessly gave all he had to everyone he met.

Ralph Culp always did THE RIGHT THING!

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carolyn and Henry Culp Sr.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce Blevins Culp; daughters, Caroline Culp, and Jennifer Culp (Brent) Boyd; special grandson, John David Steapleton; special granddaughter, Kara Ann Livesay; beloved brother, Henry (Joanna) Culp Jr.; many special nieces and nephews and dear family friends.

Pallbearers will be: Tommy Jones, Danny Richards, Bill Burdette, Melvin Ramsey, Tim Naugher, Howard Malone, Mike Morgan, and Charlie Moore.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Webb Sledge, the Newman Group, Dr. Mellick, Dr. Shah, Dr. Samuel Fisher, the 5th floor staff at Riverview Medical Center, Gadsden EMS Services, and Gentiva Hospice and employees for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church, Gadsden, AL, First United Methodist Church, Attalla, AL, The Bridge, Inc., or a charity of your choice.

The family will receive friends from 5:00-8:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 7, 2013 at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be made at www.collier-butler.com.