Amnuay Pulliam

Amnuay Pulliam peacefully passed away at home on January 21, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. A devoted wife, mother and friend, Amnuay was the glue that held her family together (and the chef who held the secret recipes they’ll now be arguing over).

Amnuay had a knack for transforming every gathering into a feast, blending Thai and American cuisines in ways that left everyone asking for seconds—and a nap. Her mangoes were legendary, earning her the unofficial title of Mango Queen. Her green thumb could grow anything, except patience for anyone who cheered against her football team. A dedicated fan, she didn’t just watch football; she studied it. If you dared root for the opposing team, you’d find yourself outside wondering what you did wrong.

Amnuay’s faith was central to her life. As a member of Wat Florida Dhammaram Buddhist Temple, she found immense joy in supporting the monks and congregation. Her dedication to her community and her temple family was inspiring.

She is survived by her husband of 41 years, Willie D. Pulliam, her children, Sam Sutchaleo (Su) of Bangkok, Thailand; Peecoon Allen (Lance) of Battle Creek, Michigan; Joanne Butts (Willie) of College Park, Georgia; John Gilbert of Battle Creek, Michigan; Jennifer Gilbert of Atlanta, Georgia; Jamie Smith (Roy) of St. Cloud, Florida; and Beatrice Pulliam Long (Derrick) of Gary, Indiana, and William L. Pulliam of Gary, Indiana. She leaves behind four granddaughters—Samantha Conway, Amanda Sutchaleo, Autumn Kitt, and Sunshine Smith; three grandsons, William Little IV, Justin Smith, and Songkran Sutchaleo and one great-granddaughter, Audrey Conway, all of whom will forever remember her laugh, her cooking skills and her ability to love unconditionally.

Donations may be made in memory of Amnuay Pulliam to Wat Florida Dhammaram, where her spirit will surely linger, ensuring no one skips a meal or roots for the wrong team.