Shirley Estelle Culbreth, age 90, of Sweeden, was called home to her eternal Heavenly home on Monday, September 14, 2026, at the residence of her son. A beloved mother, Gran, Moo-Moo, sister, neighbor, and friend, Shirley leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, kindness, faith, and countless memories that will be treasured by all who were blessed to know her. The Edmonson County native was born on February 18, 1936, to the late Noah Jess and Dorsie Wells. On August 27, 2009, she said a heartbreaking earthly farewell to her beloved husband, John Thomas Culbreth, with whom she had shared a loving and devoted marriage.
Shirley found much joy in caring for her family as a housewife and homemaker. Her home was a place of warmth and welcome, and her heart seemed to have room for everyone. She was the kind of person who never hesitated to open her door, offer a helping hand, share a meal, or simply make someone feel loved and at home. Her family was her greatest treasure, and she gave of herself freely to those she loved. She especially enjoyed gardening, cooking, and reading. Shirley and John took great pleasure in tending their garden and sharing its bounty with others. When the vegetables were ready, they would gather the fresh produce and distribute it throughout the community, never expecting anything in return. In this simple act of kindness, Shirley demonstrated the generous spirit that came so naturally to her. She was a true neighbor and friend—someone who cared about others and made her little corner of the world a better place simply by being in it. Shirley also had a wonderful sense of humor and a quick wit that could bring a smile or laughter to those around her. She had a way of making people feel comfortable and cared for, and her presence brought a special warmth wherever she went.
Most importantly, Shirley was a woman of faith. She was saved in her youth, and carried the assurance of her faith throughout her earthly journey. She was a member of Sweeden Missionary Baptist Church, and a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
She leaves to honor and cherish her precious memory—her loving children, Craig Culbreth of Sweeden, Teresa Houchin of Brownsville, and Melissa Fulkerson (Bobby) of Sweeden; her adoring grandchildren, Jessica Culbreth, Gibson Culbreth (Ricky), Kyle Culbreth (Nikki), Haley Culbreth, Corey Culbreth (Paige), Allie Culbreth, Cayla Coy (Matt), Kate Culbreth, Shelly Tunks (K.B.), Shannon Houchin, Chad Woodcock (Tasha), Lyndsea Price (Grover), and Sydney Blanton; sixteen great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Julia Culbreth, along with several nieces, nephews and dear friends. She was also preceded in death by her son, John Kerry Culbreth; granddaughter, Erin Turner York; in-laws, Jubal Woodcock, Ronnie Houchin, and Regina Wood, and several siblings. Her family will carry her memory in their hearts until the day they meet again.
The interment will be in Sweeden Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to: Santa’s Helping Hands, 664 Key Cemetery Rd., Bee Spring, KY 42207 or Molly’s Mutts Animal Rescue, 248 State Route 983, Dixon, KY 42409.
Funeral service is 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, at Patton Funeral Home Brownsville Chapel.
Visitation is noon until 7 p.m. Friday and 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
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