OBITUARY
Eugene R Cullers
May 1, 1932 – December 30, 2020
Eugene Ronald Cullers
December 30th, 2020 saw the passing of Eugene R. “Coach” Cullers
Born on May 1st, 1932, in Eaton, Ohio, Eugene’s career highlights include:
• 60 years of marriage to his beloved wife Katherine Lefler Cullers • 5 Loving Children – Kelly, Marc, Colleen, Matthew, and Elizabeth • 14 adoring grandchildren, and 5 of the greatest great grand children • Countless happy memories, and one beautiful life story
He was a father who raised his family by being an example of love and selflessness, and demonstrated these qualities every day of his life.
Before embarking on his career as an educator and coach at Gratis he proudly served in the US army in Europe.
He was an educator, who dedicated himself to impacting the lives of his students and staff for over 30 years.
His coaching career included basketball, baseball, wrestling, track, and wherever he could make an impact. As a coach, he taught not only the fundamentals of sport but more importantly the fundamentals of life to his athletes, for over three generations.
Coach would tell you he was the luckiest man in the world, never hesitating to give all credit to God. He was a man willing to share his time, his talents, his energy, his faith and his wisdom.
In lieu of flowers – Remember him by reaching out; Perform an act of kindness, make a charitable donation, champion an underdog, encourage someone who is struggling. And if you have the opportunity, tell them you were inspired by “Coach Cullers”
“And in this way, there will never come an end to the good that he has done.”
Due to the current situation with Covid, the family will be holding a Celebration of Life event in the Spring. (Date to follow)
Funeral Arrangements by Zechar Bailey Funeral Home Greenville, Ohio.
Condolences for the family may be sent to www.zecharbailey.com.
Memories
Eugene R Cullers
have a memory or condolence to add?
ADD A MEMORYSteven Baker
January 10, 2021
Coach Cullers was one of the most influential men in my life. Every time he opened his mouth was a learning moment for me. I was a quiet student in school and so when Coach joined the Greenville Moose Lodge, I was the lead person in the ceremony and I chose him for our Class Representative. He was a very proud teacher watching one of his students take control of that ceremony. Many times when he would come in the Lodge, he would say he still couldn't believe it. I told him I just remembered what he taught me and put it into practice. Loved that man. God bless his family
George M Marchal
January 9, 2021
"A Man For All Seasons" I am so honored to have known and worked with Gene in Arcanum many years ago! He was one of the most positive and and uplifting people I have ever met. He will be missed by me and all the thousands of young people that he influenced during his lifetime of dedication and concern for the welfare of others. "Coach" Rest in Peace my Friend! To Kay and all the kids I offer my condolences and thank you for the Friendship you gave to me over many years! George M. Marchal
Darrel Fourman
January 9, 2021
so sorry to hear of Coach Culler's passing. He was my favorite coach at Arcanum [Jr high basketball and High School baseball]. He always had a positive attitude, a broad smile, and encouraging comments and advice on improving our play and teamwork. I really respected him as a coach and teacher; and considered him a friend. I know you will miss him greatly.
Rick Kies
January 8, 2021
Gene worked with the first-year teachers at Ansonia Elementary when I started teaching in 1979 and I think I learned more from him in a few weekly meetings than I did in the four years of college. One of the nicest guys I ever knew. If he even knew you casually you were a lifelong friend. My prayers are with the friends and family.
Shelley (Jones) Baker
January 7, 2021
Dear Kelly and Cullers Family, Please accept my heartfelt sympathy on the passing of Mr Cullers. Hold tight to the wonderful memories. May they comfort you in the years to come.
With love and sympathy,
Shelley (Jones) Baker
Chris Whitlow
January 6, 2021
Coach Cullers graced my brother through a unique understanding & application as he exercised a godly key while developing people: "catch them doing something right".
Mr. Cullers routinely visited Mike, checked on him via phone calls, & helped him escape monotonous days in confinement to provide coffee-&-discussion at Mickey D's, a change of scenery, the current sports page detailing Darke County basketball team data, and local/national/world news.
I can testify that Mr. Cullers personally touched my family countless times & in creative ways to help lift a chronic burden from my parents. I am grateful for the ministry he graciously extended to them.
My sympathy is offered to all members of the Cullers Family, friends-neighbors-colleagues-& others, holding fond memories of a local hero who contributed intangibly in venues common to people of all walks-of-life.
Sincerely in-Christ's Comfort,
Christine (Reynolds) Whitlow
Brenda/Tom Franz
January 5, 2021
Dear Kay and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as we just heard from Karen Burkett that Gene passed on the 30th. Oh, our hearts are heavy but full of wonderful memories of our years in Greenville. We shared our husbands with countless youth as coaches as we enjoyed childrearing together. I tried calling but the call did not go through. 2020 was a rough year but we pray 2021 will be better. Hopefully, Gene did not suffer. Please call when you are able. 502-377-4370. I will write!
Take care. Love and a hug to all. Brenda
Jim Hollinger
January 5, 2021
Mr. Cullers was my principal at FM elementary. He always supported me and told me I was doing a great job. Mr. Cullers would ask me about my students daily. Mr. Cullers would give me suggestions how to help all of our students. Mr. Cullers made me a better teacher with positive ideas and encouragement.
Coach Cullers and I coached together for about 30 seasons. He taught fundamentals to our players, daily. He told our players there was more to life than basketball. He told every team the priorities in their life were #1 God, #2 Family, #3 Education, and somewhere way down the list was basketball. Coach told the players to respect their parents and teachers. If they couldn’t do that he didn’t want them on the team.
Gene Cullers was a dear friend to me. Gene would always ask about my family.
Gene would give me advice in life. Gene didn’t always tell me what I wanted to hear, he would tell me what I needed to hear.
Coach was like a father to me. Coach would tell me how to deal with situations.
Coach would tell me to do the best I knew how and then turn it over to the
“Good Lord.”
Heaven gained one of the greatest people I have ever met.
Love you Coach !!
Deb Hart
January 5, 2021
Sending my sympathies to the Culler’s family..Mark and Colleen your in my thoughts.
Deb (Buschur) Hart
Viola Gilbert
January 4, 2021
Kim and I are so very sorry to hear of the passing of your beloved Eugene. Even though we didn't know him well, he was always smiling and kind when we did see him. What a labor of love he's left behind with your beautiful family and people who knew and loved him from the lives he touched <3 Katherine, Colleen, Kelly, and the all of your family are in our hearts and prayers. Please let us know if you need anything.
Diane Hans
January 4, 2021
I first knew Mr. Cullers as my high school history teacher. He was “coach” to everyone whether you played sports or not. He was a much loved teacher and cared about all of his students. Years later he hired me for my first teaching job at the little school on the Hogpath. He was always supportive and encouraging, telling me I was going to be a great teacher when I had my doubts. That job at Franklin Monroe turned into a 30 year career, and I have him to thank. He was a special man and will be missed by all.
Terry Mills
January 4, 2021
Coach Cullers was a great blessing to our family when my wife was dying of breast and bone cancer. He was a blessing to my son, Jeremy, who was 13 years old at that time. Thanks for taking him places and keeping his mind off the problem as much as possible. You were a true minister for God! I pray for the Cullers family.
Terry Mills family thanks you.
Scott Hanes
January 4, 2021
While I knew "Coach" had to be getting along in years, his passing still came as a shock when my sister, Lynne, passed the news. Memories fade with 71 years of time but the lessons learned from Coach Cullers are still in use even though it has been nearly 60 years since my first exposure as a 7th grade basketball prospect.
Coach was my second 'hero' in life, after my Dad. His life lessons, demeanor, truthfulness and kindness are as ingrained as the lessons learned at home. I don't know a better man.
Reviewing the memories posted above, I know only a few of those who wrote them. Isn't it heartwarming and comforting to know that, to a person, the joy and love that came from this one man was so pervasive and consistent? He warmed so many hearts and guided so many young people that the communities of Darke County he served should be so thankful for his presence all these years.
I truly believe that there are angels on this earth and this remarkable man was one of them. I will forever be in remembrance of Coach Cullers and all he has done for so many.
To Kay and all the family, my condolences and prayers to comfort you in this time. You will see him again!
Sincerely,
Scott Hanes
Arcanum Class of 1967
Neal Hans
January 4, 2021
I have so many vivid memories of Coach Cullers during my school years. It all started with seventh grade basketball and then as a high school history teacher. The life lessons gained by interacting with Coach have stayed with me for a life time. He also mentored me as a new teacher to help me get a good start to a long career. What I will miss more than anything is the yearly card games we would have at Christmas time. He was a great Godly man who is now resting in the arms of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I’m sure he has been told “well done”.
Stephen Gruber
January 4, 2021
Coach Cullers is without doubt one of God's choicest servants. His impact on me as a high school athlete, fellow teacher and administrator, a coach, and friend was immense. Always so encouraging and caring about you and your family. He will be missed by so many.
Bob Dean
January 3, 2021
We loved Gene and Kay and their family. He was a wonderful neighbor to our mom at BRC. Through the years his smile and prayers were invaluable. Our condolences and love to his family, he will be dearly missed.
Scott Barnes
January 3, 2021
He was a great basketball coach. But even better at teaching life lessons!!! Great man and sorry for him to go! Love ya coach!
Ian Hanes
January 3, 2021
I will always remember my grandfather for instilling a love for simple things. Fishing, cards games, family, etc. I’ll never forget when my parents were both in Texas for a weekend house hunting, he and my grandmother babysat my siblings and I in Eaton. He drove over on a Saturday morning only to find that out TV wasn’t working and so he couldn’t watch the Ohio State game. He promptly got in his car and drove back home, listening to it on the radio on the way to not miss a play.
He was a wonderful man, as perfect a grandpa as you could ask for, and will be greatly missed.
Deanna York
January 3, 2021
I'm sadden to hear this news. I enjoyed visiting the Cullers household as a teen and the love that Mr. and Mrs. Cullers shared with all who entered their home. When they moved from Water Street into our neighborhood, I enjoyed the warm greetings and hearty waves from Mr. Cullers when we passed on our daily walks. His love and care will be missed. May he rest in peace.
Debby Sodders
January 3, 2021
This is incredibly sad for me! I worked for Gene as a student aide in high school, then became friends with him after college as an educator. He never forgot me and was always so happy to see me. He touched me deeply and will always live in my heart. God bless you, Gene Cullers, and thanks for being my friend!
Debby Sodders
John Dillon
January 3, 2021
I have good memories of Gene when I officiated many of his girls basketball games and when we conferred with each other on issues we shared as elementary principals in our respective Darke County schools.
Connie Tande
January 2, 2021
I only met the man one time but he and his wife raised an outstanding son, whose family were former neighbors. Prayers for the family.
Jim Gish
January 2, 2021
I met Gene in my first few years of teaching. He was a kind and valuable mentor . He was my daughter's basketball coach with Jimmy Hollinger and she loved them both. He was a legend in Darke County education. Loved this guy.
Roxanne Grooms
January 2, 2021
Great human, hands down. Always positive. Always a smile. A bright light in the community. Blessings to the family and may you be cloaked is beautiful memories and the character he instilled in you.
Peace Mr. Cullers.
Brian Selander
January 2, 2021
I was lucky enough to meet Coach by trying out for the 7th grade basketball team at Franklin-Monroe. I was so nervous I would get cut, I was not a good ball player; but having willingness to hustle and love for the team Coach wouldn’t cut you. He loved you more, he loved an underdog. I had the extra good fortune of living on his driving route to-and-from school; so not too long into the season he offers to pick me up and take me home from practices to help out my parents. He just decides this is yet another way he can help, he was so kind and always thinking of what he could do. It did not take me long to realize those drives in Coach’s truck made me the luckiest kid on that ball club. He was such a joy to be around. He continued this generosity for my younger sister (Alisha) when she played for him as well. Years down the road when we would talk he would always ask about my mom and dad and family. He cared so much for everyone.
Kay and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. He was one of the greatest men I’ve ever met.
-Brian Selander & Family
Dan Small
January 2, 2021
So sorry to hear about Eugene's passing. Such a great guy!
Jana Deeter
January 2, 2021
Gene Cullers was a principal at Gettysburg school and had such a personality that the students looked forward to dropping by his office..always an opened door and always greeted with a smile.
Rick Hunt
January 2, 2021
Gene was a wonderful person and a friend .I remember at Arcanum Schools I was in the 7th grade in 1963 .Coach Cullers came into the old gym and told us PRESIDENT KENNEDY has been killed .I remember this like it was yesterday .He came to my Dads viewing when he passed and all the Hunts loved seeing him.Gene you will be missed by many.Prayers for you Kay and all the families.RIP MY FRIEND.
Nancy Coooer Farris
January 2, 2021
I don't know where to begin because I've known Coach for so many years. First he was my Civics teacher in Junior High them he became part of my family when Kelly married Rick. In later years, he was a huge help to my sister-in-law when my brother died. Coach wax one of the good guys and will be remembered with love. RIP Mr. Cullers. Yes, I know, I'm supposed to call you Gene even though I just can't.
Joanie Hollinger
January 2, 2021
Mr. Cullers was one of my favorite teachers. He always had an abundance of energy and a smile on his face.
Marty McCabe
January 2, 2021
Gene painted for us for many summers. Everyone on the crew (including me) loved Gene for his attitude, humor, kindness, thoughtfulness, and hardworking example. He loved young people and there was always a good crew of them around and Gene would call a mid afternoon huddle to inspire them to finish the day out strong! One thing he would say is we have to work hard so Marty and Connie can afford to send their kids to college and he did it in a humorous way! Everyone looked forward to the huddles. He also loved to caulk! So much that we called him the “ caulk man”! We painted a caulking gun gold and mounted it on a plaque and gave it to him out of appreciation, love, fun , and respect! We are all better from knowing him! Love you Gene!
Retina Whalen
January 2, 2021
R.I.P. Mr. Cullers. You were an amazing person. I had you as a coach and principal back in the day. You always stuck with me over the yrs. You always believed in me and had my back. You will b missed dearly. Much love thanks for everything and being a positive role model for so many people.
Christine (Bowling) Lynn
January 2, 2021
Mr. Cullerss was one of my great teachers at Arcanum. He was so nice and had a great sense of humor. I remember one day a staff member brought his paycheck to him in the class room. He jumped around and was smiling and laughing as he said " Shoes for the baby!"
We all laughed with him.
I had the privilege later of helping care for his mother at BRC
Rest in peace, Mr. Cullers.
Jim Maples
January 2, 2021
I am saddened by the loss of this wonderful man. Gene coached for one season at Tri-Village but I considered him a friend for many years. He will be missed and I am thankful for getting to know him. Gene will always be one of my favorite people in education. He had an amazing impact on numerous lives. I love ya Gene. I’m tapping my head for a timeout....😊💕
Elizabeth G
January 2, 2021
Mr. Cullers was my elementary school principal and I remember him with such fondness. I’m so sorry to hear of his passing, but I know that his memory and legacy lives on with those he mentored and cared for. Much care to his family during this difficult time. ♥️
Sheryl Foutz-West
January 2, 2021
I had Mr. Chillers as a wonderful teacher in Senior High.. He was such an inspiration to me...I'll never forget his kindness.
Rest in Peace, my friend🙌
Tony Ayette
January 2, 2021
Mr. Cullers worked for the county office helping new teachers. He was an inspiration to me by his positive approach and suggestions. I used him to help me as a young coach to teach the young athletes. He remained your friend for life. His faith in God and faithfulness to his church were also inspiring.
Mark Buchy
January 2, 2021
Gene, you are my hero. I aspire to be half the man you are. Thank you for giving me your daughter, the love of my life. I will see you again sir! I love you! Mark B.
Carol Reynolds Hightower
January 2, 2021
Coach Cullers was such a good friend to my brother Mike Reynolds. Mike was Coach's basketball manager throughout the years and Coach continued to friend Mike throughout his adult life. He will visit, call and often pick him up and take him out for a coffee.
He will be missed, but never forgotten.
Our prayers and sincere sympathy to all his family.
The Reynolds Family
Becky smith
January 2, 2021
I only knew Gene for a short time...but even though our visits were brief, he shared such a wonderful kindness..such a sweet smile and gentle nature. I will never forget him. Many prayers and so much love to his family...
Brittasha Thompson
January 2, 2021
I was a 7th grader who didn’t know a lick about basketball when I met Coach Cullers after Coach Hollinger had called my mom and told her he needed me and a friend to join the basketball team so they would have enough players to have a season. Somewhat reluctantly, I decided to try it out for the sake of my friends. I truly believe it was divine intervention, because the impact Coach had on my life during such formative years cannot be put into words. Truth be known, it was probably part of God’s preparation for my calling to teach middle school. He did teach me a lot about the game of basketball, but he taught me a whole lot more about life. My success in the game never really came, but I do think the choices I’ve made in my life and the attitudes and values I hold dear do make me successful, and those things were impacted and encouraged by this dear man who was certainly a champion for this underdog. Though my basketball skills left much to be desired, Coach (Papa C) never made me feel less than. In fact, he built me up constantly, encouraging me and showing a grandfatherly love and interest in me and all my fellow teammates. Years later, I had the privilege of attending parties with him at the Shafer’s house and was blessed to remain in contact with him in this way. After all those years, he maintained his genuine enthusiasm for hearing about my successes, encouraging me through the hard things, reminiscing on funny basketball memories, and always leaving me with a hug, a smile, and an “I love ya, Britt! Pray for me!” Gosh, I will miss him, but I couldn’t be more grateful that I was one of the countless people he positively impacted with his life, his words, his smiles, his love, and his example. There is not a doubt that he is partying with Jesus right now, and I am eagerly anticipating a heavenly reunion when my day comes and Papa C and Lil B will share laughs and smiles and hugs once again. My prayers and heart are with you, sweet Kay and family.
Sheryll Ritz
January 2, 2021
Such a joyful man. I am blessed to have met him and his loving wife at the Brethren Retirement Community.
Peg (Turner) Heinze
January 1, 2021
Gene and Kay gifted my first car to my dad who sold it to me for $1. to avoid OH gift tax. LOL I drove that 1965 Bonneville for years! I think we should always keep our first car!
Kay and Gene are my daughter Amanda's Godparents and only wish we could have lived closer so we could enjoy them more intimately.
Kay, I am so sorry for your loss of such a beautiful, God given gift.
Dave Gray
January 1, 2021
When God made Gene “Coach “ Cullers he made one of the finest men on this earth. Coach was my Junior High basketball coach and I have so many great stories about my 2 years with him and my teammates. Coach was a GREAT family man and named our plays after his kids. We ran a lot of Kelly and Mark😁😁. I served with him as an administrator for FM for a number of years and have great stories from those years also. We also had NUMEROUS memorable poker games 😁😁. They don’t come any finer that Coach Cullers. Well done thy good and faithful servant!!!!!!!❤️
Terri Thobe (Bridenbaugh)
January 1, 2021
He was everything that an educator, administrator and coach should strive to be. What an amazing man we have lost. RIP Mr. Cullers!!!
Katherine Jump
January 1, 2021
Mr. Cullers was undoubtedly one of the finest men I've ever known. His exemplary behavior whether in his role as principal, coach, or friend always let you know he was on your side. He was a champion of children including my four daughters. There was a magic within the walls of Franklin-Monroe Elementary on Hogpath Rd. the likes of which will never be seen again in any of our lifetimes. He and his right hand angel, Norma Baker and all the amazing staff provided an environment of nurturing and support that seemed to be unique to F-M. He was front and center, involved, and knew "his kids." I was honored to sing for him or the staff or the kids on multiple occasions only to watch him well up with tears in his eyes and he was always so very gracious. There aren't enough words or enough time or space to say all I want to say but people like Eugene Cullers I believe, will live on for a long time to come because of the love we hold for them in our hearts and the memories we share from those precious and unique days we treasure. My heart goes out to Kay and the kids. God bless you all.
Heather Paul
January 1, 2021
Mr Cullers was an awesome principal. He always came in smiling at the students telling them good morning, have a good day. He will be missed. Heather Paul class of "95"
Norma Bruner
January 1, 2021
With great sadness I learned today of Genes passing. Such wonderful memories I hold in my heart for a man who never quit helping anyone he could. Always a smile with a kind heart attached. So sorry Kay and all the family. Colleen and Kirk I am so sad to learn this. May God hold you all in the palm of His hands and Bless you all in the days ahead. Blessings and Love to all.
Tina (Kerg) Cameron
January 1, 2021
Gene was a friend to all. I can hear him laughing with my Brother Ronnie as we painted for Marty during the Summer months in the mid-90s. When Gene arrived, the fun began. "Geno!!" we would cheer as we ran to hug him to start the work day. He had such an uplifting spirit. Once he started talking in his cartoon voice, we all talked to each other that way throughout the day. Ronnie and I would turn to each other and say "we are going to put some paint on today!!"
We would "sing" country music while we worked, and occasionally we danced. Fifteen years or so later, Gene came over to help Ronnie paint his house. He said every time he hears the song "Any man of mine" by Shania Twain, he laughs and thinks of me. We played that song over and over.
Thank you for the Sunshine and all of the laughs!
We love you Geno! We love you Kay!
May God Bless the entire Family and every heart Gene touched.
Les and Sharon Trittschuh
January 1, 2021
Prayers,sympathy and condolences
RICHARD CLINE
December 31, 2020
Gene was a man who touched and impacted so many young people during his lifetime. I am so sorry to learn of his passing.
He had the respect of both the youth he led and the adults with whom he worked.
I recall Gene accepting my invitation to coach the JV basketball team for a season at FM, I know he didn't really want the position since he was already so busy, but he did it out of friendship and his care for our players.
Our deepest condolences to Kay and the kids, Gene will be missed.
Richard & Karen Cline
Cynthia Kartman
December 31, 2020
I was so sorry to hear that dear Uncle Gene had died. He is entwined in so many of my happy childhood memories. I’m thinking about you all and praying for you, especially your mom.
Cindy 💔💔