Steve Culler

Steve Culler slipped quietly and confidently into the Hands of his Lord on December 10, 2025—no doubt arriving early and on time, fully prepared, and impeccably dressed. Born on May 10, 1945, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Stephen David Culler was the son of the late James David and Juanita B. Culler, who instilled in him the values of integrity, discipline, and an appreciation for doing things the right way. His parents helped shape his steady character, sharp mind, and unmistakable common sense. 

Steve graduated from Mineral Springs High School and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from Mars Hill University in 1967. Shortly thereafter, he answered a higher call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Army. He served proudly with the 23rd Infantry Division (“Americal”) during the Vietnam War as a Scout Dog Handler—an assignment requiring courage, vigilance, focus, and calm under pressure. He received an Honorable Discharge in 1969, having already mastered leadership skills that would later translate seamlessly into civilian life. 

Family, faith, and friends were the true anchors of Steve’s life. He was a devoted member of Clemmons Moravian Church, where he served as a Trustee and Diener and deeply valued the fellowship of the church community. Steve loved golf and was remembered by his golf buddies as a great playing partner, a loyal friend, and an all-around likable guy. His legendary “Culler-isms”—delivered with perfect timing and a subtle smile—kept everyone laughing and listening. He understood the game well enough to know when silence was needed, when encouragement was required, and when a perfectly timed “Culler-ism” could rescue a bad hole and an even worse swing. On and off the course, Steve was simply good company. He loved time with his family, especially his grandchildren, who brought him immense joy. Steve enjoyed beach music and dancing with Judy, the love of his life, at Ocean Drive Beach (a popular section of North Myrtle Beach in South Carolina). He loved cheering for the Atlanta Braves and watching Wake Forest games. Steve was never afraid to speak the truth–gifted with a gentle wisdom that guided others with clarity and kindness. Remarkably guided by common sense, Steve was trusted by those fortunate enough to seek his counsel. Professionally, Steve began his career in accounting before finding his true calling in real estate in 1977 with Bates-Culler. He later joined Lambe-Young Realtors and was appointed President following the passing of co-founder Thomas W. Lambe, Jr. In 1997, Steve led the merger of several local firms that formed Coldwell Banker Triad, Realtors (CBTR). He concluded his distinguished career there as Chief Financial Officer when the company was sold in late 2019. At CBTR, Steve filled many roles, but his greatest joy came from teaching, mentoring, training, and solving problems that others couldn’t—or wouldn’t—touch. He became the “go-to” person for agents navigating difficult situations. Steve had a rare gift: he was never afraid of confrontation, yet always handled it calmly, respectfully, and with just enough humor to remind everyone that solutions were possible. His timing was impeccable, his stories legendary, and his wisdom unmatched.

Steve once remarked to his CBTR partner, Beverly Godfrey, that his first year “running the show” was more challenging than “walking point” in Vietnam—a comment both humorous and revealing of his steady resolve. He was passionate about reducing liability in the workplace and co-authored a continuing education course with Will Martin, Legal Counsel for the North Carolina Association of Realtors. The course became an official North Carolina Continuing Education offering and remains a lasting contribution to the profession. In addition to serving as CFO, Steve managed the CBTR Davie County office, where he was an outstanding leader and found genuine satisfaction in his work. His co-worker and dear friend of more than twenty-five years, Amanda Cranfill, shared that Steve’s impact on agents’ careers, their character, and their lives will last for years to come. She deeply respected his wisdom, sought his guidance often, and will miss his steady counsel, thoughtful perspective, and quiet humor more than words can express.

Steve served as President of the Winston-Salem Regional Association of Realtors in 1984 and was inducted into the Thomas W. Lambe, Jr. Hall of Fame in 2012—honors that reflected not only his professional accomplishments, but the esteem in which he was held by his peers. Steve will be dearly missed by his family, friends, colleagues, golf partners, church family, and by all who lovingly knew him as “Papa.” 

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Carolyn Brown; his stepson, Robert “Rob” Griffin; and his cousin, Donald Caudle, Sr. He is survived by his beloved wife, Judy Monterose Griffin Culler; stepsons Glen Griffin (Doris) of Holly Springs and Sam Griffin (Raven); grandchildren Dominick, Anthony, Alex, and Amelia Grace; brother-in-law Tom Brown; sisters-in-law Janet Monterose, Sandra Gravely, Margaret Fischer, Faye Griffin, and Charlotte Griffin; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends whose lives were made better by knowing him.

Funeral services will be held by Rev. Christopher C. Thore at Clemmons Moravian Church, on Thursday, December 18, 2025, with visitation at 2:00 p.m. and the service at 3:00 p.m., followed by a graveside service in God’s Acre behind the church. May we carry forward Steve’s steady wisdom, gentle humor, and unwavering integrity. May his faith be our comfort, his example our guide, and his memory a blessing—now and always.

Memorials may be made in Steve's honor to Clemmons Moravian Church, 3536 Spangenberg Ave., Clemmons, NC 27012 or to the Alzheimer's Association, 4615 Dundas Drive, Greensboro, NC 27407.