Wally Cullum

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Walter Dee Cullum passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones, on July 26th, 2024. He is survived by his wife, Duwayna Sue “Boogie” Cullum, three children, DeLee Clark (Chris), DeNeen Calhoun (John), and David Cullum (Yvonne), four grandchildren, Brianna Collums, Garrett Cullum, Elliott and Dexter Calhoun, two great-granddaughters, Evelyn and Charli Cullum and many loving step grandchildren.

Wally was born on November 17th, 1936 in Gainesville, Texas, to David “Dee” Crockett Cullum, Jr. and Margaret Crawford Cullum. In his youth he was very involved in the scouting program and became a decorated Eagle Scout. He was a graduate of Gainesville High School, class of 1955. He attended Southern Methodist University, where he was a member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. In 1958, Wally joined the Naval Cadet Program. He received his wings and commission on February 12,1960, the same day he wed Duwayna Sue Kline. Due to an unseasonable ice storm in South Texas, he was 1 and ½ hours late to the wedding. However, the bride remained calm, and she remains to this day his devoted wife.

In Newfoundland, Canada, Wally served in the Navy Airborne Early Warning Squadron Atlantic Barrier flying reconnaissance. Afterwards, while stationed in Norfolk, Virginia, his squadron flew dignitaries and supplies to and from aircraft carriers. Later in Corpus Christi, Texas, he was part of a squadron which trained novice pilots. Wally would go on to become an airline pilot for American Airlines in November, 1964, and retire as Captain in 1996. During his career he flew to many parts of the world and traveled extensively.

After retirement he became an active member of the Gainesville community. “He devoted hundreds of hours of service to various community organizations and projects, giving generously of his time and talents to make the community a better place to live.” He served on several boards, including the Morton Museum and Gainesville ISD Education Foundation. He was a 17-year member of Rotary Club, having served in multiple offices including President, and he was committed to various projects, such as the cherished Flag Program, Meals on Wheels, and youth initiatives. He was awarded Rotary’s highest honor in 1998. He also received multiple community service awards, including the 2000 Volunteer of the Year Award from Cooke County Heritage Society, 2005 Community Service Award from NCTC, and 2008 Gainesville High Alumni Award from Gainesville ISD Education Foundation. Wally was also a longtime member of the First Baptist Church.

Wally was an avid traveler and relished traveling the world with his wife and friends. Wally loved smoking the finest cigars and drinking the finest scotches. He enjoyed serving as sommelier at every family gathering and tending to his pool and yard. He cherished his many friends and their comradery. He will forever be remembered for his kindness, generosity, charm and wit. He was a true gentleman and always looked the part. He had perfect hair and was impeccably groomed to the end. Wally always said he would “rather be lucky than good” and he was lucky to the end.

A memorial service will be held August 11, 2024, Sunday, at 3:00pm, Geo. J. Carroll & Son, Gainesville, Texas. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church, Gainesville, Texas or the charity of your choice.

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