James Ray McCullough

James Ray McCullough went home to be with his Lord on Tuesday, February 13. He is survived by his devoted wife, Robin (Lehman) McCullough, and they shared 38 years together. His sons include Timothy (Michele) McCullough, of Longwood, Ryan James McCullough of Groveland, and Scott Breeze of Valrico, Florida. He leaves behind four grandchildren: Hannah Rae McCullough, Hailee Reese McCullough, Hailee Breeze and Tanner Anderson McCullough who will all miss their "Ponca" and Grandpa Jim.

Family members include three beloved sisters: Jackie (Bill) Smyers, Dorothy (Dee) Horine and Jeannette (Don) Barbour. His mother-in-law Doris Zuercher and brother-in law Stan (Bobbie) Lehman were cherished family members along with several nieces and nephews. He also had a step-sister Michelle Merriam and step-brother Larry Coppi. He was preceded in death by his father Jack McCullough, mother Dorothy Virginia (Patterson) Coppi, step-father Paul Coppi, brother-in-law Wes Horine, and a nephew, Donald Ray Barbour, Jr.

Born in Portsmouth, Virginia, Jim relocated with his family to the "quiet town" of Orlando in 1957 and helped to run a paper route with his mother and sisters. After attending Evans High School, he enlisted in the US Army. He honorably served at locations in Germany and was later stationed in Viet Nam before his discharge in 1971. He was a proud veteran and a member of the American Legion.

Jim worked for Walt Disney World in the Decorating Department (the "Tunnel" location) and met Robin there. In his many roles, he decorated the large Christmas tree on Main Street, worked overtime to open Epcot Center, managed the Christmas Warehouse and later transferred to Scenic Services where they created set props for special events. He retired in 2000 due to declining health.

His many hobbies varied between his love of cars, antiques, clocks and Disney memorabilia. He especially enjoyed trips to North Carolina to visit his sisters, times spent at the beach, and vacations to Jamaica and San Francisco.

Jim was a member of Westwood Church and formerly served as a deacon. He later attended First Baptist Church of Orlando and was a member of the Sharper Image Life Group. He made many lasting friendships at both churches and loved his time spent there.

A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Saturday, February 24, at Westwood Church beginning at 11:00 am. Location is 4412 Apopka Vineland Road, Ocoee.

Donations may be made to Wounded Warriors Foundation or Westwood Church