Richard R. “Bud” Cullum

Richard R. “Bud” Cullum, known affectionately as Bud to his friends and family, embarked on his heavenly journey on January 12, 2026, in Vienna, WV, at the well-lived age of 89. His life, a testament to love, generosity, and unwavering faith, was a beacon of inspiration to all who knew him.

Born on January 6, 1937, Bud was a proud graduate of Parkersburg High School. His keen interest in mechanics and technology led him to advanced IBM training, where he honed his skills on IBM Selectric Typewriters. Bud’s career as a typewriter service technician with IBM was marked by diligence and excellence. In 1968, building on his reputation for “Professional Service with a Personal Touch,” Bud and his wife, Connie, with seven children at home, founded Bud’s Sales & Service, (BSSI). Together, they provided typewriter and office machine service to hundreds of local industrial and commercial customers for decades. His legacy endures to this day with BSSI continuing as a family business that maintains the commitment to excellence in customer service.

At home, Bud’s devotion to his family was the cornerstone of his life. He shared 67 beautiful years with his beloved wife, Connie. Together, they raised a family of distinction and love, including their children Rick Cullum, Joanna Leach (Jim), Loren Cullum (Lisa), Geoff Cullum, (Lisa), Eric Cullum (Christina), Amber Harman (Dave), and Rodney Cullum (Cara). Bud was a cherished patriarch to many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom he adored and imparted his wisdom.

An unwavering Christian, Bud’s faith was the compass by which he navigated life. His ministry extended beyond the walls of the church, as he fixed and then operated an old-time printing press to be used by his church to spread the gospel. Bud’s commitment to sharing the teachings of Jesus Christ was a profound expression of his love for the Lord and his community.

Bud’s life was a vivid illustration of the words of Helen Keller: “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched – they must be felt with the heart.” He lived by this creed, touching hearts through his loving and generous nature. His legacy is one of a life filled with purpose and service, a path that he walked with joy and faithfulness.

To encapsulate the essence of Bud Cullum is to speak of a man whose life was a living sermon of compassion and giving. As a motivational speaker might say, “Bud was not just a man who went to church, but truly the church in motion, reaching out and uplifting everyone around him.”

He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to resonate through the generations. Bud’s life story encourages us all to live with intention, to serve with passion, and to love without reservation. As we honor and celebrate Bud’s extraordinary journey, we are reminded that the beauty of a life well-lived never truly ends but continues to echo in the lives it touched. Richard R. “Bud” Cullum will be profoundly missed, yet his spirit will remain an indelible part of our lives, guiding us with the wisdom of a life lived in full measure.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, January 17th at 4:00 pm at the Leavitt Funeral Home, Parkersburg with Pastor Rick Kapple officiating.

Visitation will be Saturday 3-4 pm at the funeral home prior to the service.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.LeavittFuneralHome.com.