John Elbert Culbertson September 8, 1946 - September 5, 2024

John E. Culbertson “Cubby” AKA  Papa John was born in Oklahoma City to Jack and Bette (Fields) Culbertson. He attended Mayfair Elementary School, Taft Junior High and graduated from NW Classen class of 1964. He joined the Army National Guard of Oklahoma. In 1969  he married Ann Costello and was blessed with his two daughters Carrie and Mary Beth. John met the love  of his life Michele Garthright and was  married in 2009. They enjoyed traveling together and created many lasting memories.

John was a gifted salesperson. His greatest asset was his beautiful smile that would light up any room. His career  spanned several companies including Fidelity Bank, Jones Newby Heat and Air, Joe Esco Tire, Autohaus Sports Cars, OKC Freightliner , MHC Kenworth and later self employed.

John was always up for an adventure and had a need for speed including go carts, Harley riding, race cars, drag boats, water skiing, snow skiing, scuba diving, hunting, and golfing with his many devoted friends.

John was deeply loved and adored by all. He never met a stranger and will be profoundly missed. Everyone loved Cubby!

John loved God, his family and his country. He was a true patriot! He cherished the time he had with his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and all of his pets.

John is preceded in death by his beloved daughter Carrie Gillanders, his son Tony Lowther, his parents Jack and Bette Culbertson and his sister Rebecca Litteral. He is survived by his adoring wife Michele, his daughters Mary Beth Treece (Greg) and Cissy Hanagan (Steve); his sister, Carol Clark (John); his grandchildren Zach and Shelby Treece, Zane Treece (Maddie), Jackson Treece (Destiny), Lauren Treece (Nash), Luke Treece, India Waite (Logan) and Alexis Vasquez (Eduardo); and his great grandchildren Catalina, Violet, Ivy and Sterling Treece.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to:

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation

2361 Hylan Boulevard

Staten Island, New York 10306

t2t.org