Jackie Nelms Culliton

Jackie Nelms Culliton, 57, of Raleigh, slipped peacefully from this world on Friday evening, August 18th, at UNC Hospital surrounded by the abundant love of family and friends. A Raleigh native and graduate of Millbrook High, Jackie was the youngest of 4 children, born November 1, 1959, to James and Hettie Nelms. At 21, Jackie married handsome army veteran, Paul Culliton, with whom she had two daughters, Kim and Cyndi, the loves and centerpieces of her life adventures. As a mother, there is none who loved more nor has been more proud of her children; the amazing women they have become is a testament to who she was, her love of Christ, and her lifelong friendship with their father. In recent decades, she found her calling in her service work with special populations. In addition to working in the field, “Miss Jackie” (as she was affectionately and widely known) donated much of her time, energy, and all of her love to the many dozens of special friends she supported. Most recently as the heart of Communitas, organizing events, fundraisers, crafts, meet-ups, and socials for individuals and families with disabilities and special needs for the nonprofit that she helped to create. She genuinely loved her work, her family, friends and community, and remains irreplaceably well-loved by all who knew her. Jackie is preceded in death by her father, James Nelms, and nephew, Eddie Nelms. She is survived her daughters, Kimberly Culliton-Murphy and husband, Paul; Cynthia Hope Stone and husband, Robby; brother, Jim Nelms and wife, Patricia (née Averett); brother Johnny Nelms; sister, Judy Nelms Nipper and husband, Joe; her mother, Hettie Wall Nelms; granddaughter, Elizabeth Stone; friend and former spouse, Paul Culliton and partner, Jeanne; nieces and nephews: Jan Nipper Rhoades, Joel and Karen Nipper, Jamilyn and Joey. As well as throngs of friends and loved ones who shall miss her presence, laughter, friendship, and joy. A celebration of Jackie’s life will begin with Visitation from 6-8pm at Bryan-Lee in Garner on Tuesday, August 22nd. Celebration service to be held at 1pm, Wednesday, August 23rd at Highland Baptist Church in Raleigh, where Jackie was an active and dedicated member for over 20 years. Pallbearers: Paul F. Murphy, Robby Stone, Joel Nipper, Joey Nipper, Derek Thornton, and William Arch Nelms. The family would like to express their deepest gratitude for all love, support, and assistance from countless family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. Special thanks to beloved friend, Tammy Thornton, and her beautiful family for everything. In lieu of flowers, the Culliton family gratefully requests that any desired tributes be made in the form of donation to be held in trust for Jackie’s granddaughter, Elizabeth Hope Stone, the apple of Nana’s eye. Donations for Lizzy’s trust may be sent to Attorney Kevin P. Hopper: Hopper, Hopper & Mulligan, PLLC; 5400 Glenwood Avenue, Suite G-01; Raleigh, NC 27612.