Ray Charles Culver Jr.'s Obituary
Ray Charles Culver, Jr., age 94, of Fayetteville, Arkansas, passed away on April 11, 2026. He was born on March 25, 1932, in Newcastle, Wyoming.
Ray lived a full and meaningful life defined by devotion to family, service to his community, and a deep and abiding faith. He shared 70 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Penny Culver, creating a legacy of love that spans generations.
He is survived by his loving spouse, Penny Culver; his son, Chuck Culver (Barbara), and his daughter, Ann Reece (James T). He was a proud grandfather to Laura Holland (Tim), Jenny Lee (David), Emily Giblin (Scott), and Taylor Reece Lucy. He also cherished his great-grandchildren: Annie, Thomas, and Ruthie Lee; Charli and Eli Holland; Eris Lucy; and Hawk and Mercy Bratton.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond Charles Culver and Thelma Scull Culver, and his brother, John Lawrence “Larry” Culver.
Ray was a graduate of Hendrix College and went on to serve as County Treasurer in Phillips County, Arkansas. Over the course of his career, he also worked in pharmaceutical sales and as a small business owner. He was a faithful member of the United Methodist Church where he served on many committees and as a Stephen Minister. His commitment to service extended into the community through his involvement with the Association of Arkansas Counties, Lions Club, the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program, and his leadership roles as a Scoutmaster, church youth leader, and Y Guide Leader.
Ray found great joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially time spent with family and friends. Whether playing Go Fish with his granddaughters or enjoying golf, bridge, and dominoes with friends, Ray will be remembered for his warm spirit and the friendships he cherished.
A memorial service will be held 2:30 PM Wednesday, April 15th in the Special Care House 1 at Butterfield Trail Village with Reverend Jennie Williams officiating. A private family graveside service will be held at Walnut Grove Cemetery in Newport, Arkansas.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Butterfield Trail Village Health Care, Circle of Life Hospice, and Becky Goff for their compassionate care.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Butterfield Trail Village Foundation – Health Care, the Alzheimer’s Association, or Central United Methodist Church – Hearts and Hands Ministry.
Ray will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to those he loved and served. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.Top of Form
To sign the online guest book please visit https://www.bernafuneralhomes.com
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