William Allen Culbertson

William “Bill” Allen Culbertson November 9, 1939 – May 29, 2025

William “Bill” Allen Culbertson of Cornelius, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2025, at the age of 85.

Born on November 9, 1939, in Greenwood, South Carolina, Bill lived a life full of service, adventure, faith, and love. He proudly served his country as a U.S. Navy veteran, with active duty from January 1958 to October 1960 and again from July 1962 to October 1968, including service during the Vietnam War. His time in the Navy reflected his deep sense of duty and patriotism.

Following his military service, Bill worked as a skilled welder, a trade he took great pride in. Later he brought joy to communities across the country by transporting NASCAR simulator cars, allowing fans of all ages to experience the excitement of the sport firsthand. He was also a passionate scuba diver and instructor, sharing his love for the ocean and exploration with countless others.

Bill had a deep love for music—he found great joy in singing and playing guitar, often filling his home and gatherings with songs and laughter. His faith was also a guiding light in his life. He cherished the verse John 3:16, which brought him comfort and direction: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

In January 2000, Bill married Nancy Harrison. In 2011, Nancy surprised him with a mountain cabin in Sparta, North Carolina—a special retreat where they created treasured memories, spent summers and formed lasting friendships. Together, they were faithful visitors of New Hope Baptist Church in Sparta, where they found spiritual community and peace.

Bill is survived by his devoted wife, Nancy Harrison; his children: Michael Culbertson (Cheryl), Steve Culbertson, Rita Culbertson Childers (Mark Pate), Celisa Torreze, Shannon Culbertson (Amy); and his stepchildren: Cherie Stevens and Tim Mock.

He was a proud grandfather to: Adam Culbertson (Tiffany), Chris Culbertson (Jenny), Jordan Culbertson (Keri), Taylor Culbertson, Walker Culbertson, Chelsea Culbertson, Brittany Blanton Nichols (Jeffrey Nichols), Charles Blanton III (Jenna), Heather Lasker (Jonny), Bonnie Ferguson (Jeremy), Timothy Mock, Randy Mock, Carson Kimbrell (Damon), and Gregory Kirby (Kaylee).

He was also blessed with many great-grandchildren: Sawyer, Zoey, Sophia, Sedric, and Ainsley Culbertson; Ja’Khya and Naomi Nichols; Tristan and Ava Blanton; Brandon Lasker; Bella and Jett Ferguson; Meredith, John and Liam Mock; Brayton, Bowen, Baxley, and Benny Culbertson; Savannah and Adeline Culbertson; Lidiona Rustad; and Renley Jo Kimbrell.

He was preceded in death by his son William Culbertson Jr., daughter Kimberly Culbertson, and his brother Joe Culbertson.

Bill will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, deep faith, warm heart, and the music he shared with everyone around him. His legacy will live on in the lives of those he loved and inspired.