Rossie "R.J." James Culpepper Jr.

R.J. overcame many medical challenges after a severe stroke left him partially paralyzed in January of 2013. He was grateful for the many enjoyable outings, day trips and family gatherings even after being limited in mobility. His loving wife, Gla, was a tireless advocate for his medical care and made sure he continued to have a fulfilling life with friends, family and activities beyond his nursing home.

He was born on October 5, 1942, in Lake Wales, Florida to the late Rossie James Culpepper, Sr. and Amanda “Lenora” (Moore) Culpepper. He graduated from Lake Wales High School in 1960 and continued his education at Southern Technical College in Marietta, Georgia that has since become part of Kennesaw State University. R.J. was a retired engineer from Southern Bell / AT&T in Jacksonville, Florida.

He was bold about his faith in Jesus and a long member of First Baptist Church of Jacksonville, Florida.

R.J. was proceeded in death by his parents, Rossie & Lenora Culpepper, who raised their family in Lake Wales, Florida and then moved to Ft Meade, Florida. He was also predeceased by his sister, Joyce Tabb; and his first cousin, John Merchant, who grew up in their home like a brother.

He is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 47 years, (July 15, 1978), Glaconia Adams Culpepper.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by 3 children, Ross Culpepper (Ginger) of Adel, Georgia, Michele Culpepper Moses (Gene) of Lake Wales, Florida and Matthew Culpepper of Jacksonville, Florida; 3 grandchildren, Tyler Moses, Owen Moses and James Culpepper; brother, David Culpepper (Jackie) of Aiken, South Carolina; brother in law, Dwyane Adams (Frances) of Jacksonville, Florida; and many other extended family and faithful friends.

R.J. had many interests and hobbies which include watching old westerns, working with electronics and technical writing with the goal of simplifying complex instructions so others could easily learn new skills. He also enjoyed photography, creating promotional videos for small businesses and was a skilled handyman who was motivated by the challenge of fixing things.

He was thankful for opportunities in his earlier years to travel to Alaska, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Europe and Hawaii.

Services will be held at 1pm on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, 11801 San Jose Boulevard, Jacksonville, Florida 32223, with a visitation beginning at 12pm.

A reception will follow the service.