He was born in Pennington Gap on Oct. 28, 1949, the only son to late Ruth Culp and Edward Franklin Culp Sr.

He is survived by his wife, Susan P. Culp; his loving daughters Valerie, Lauren, Shelly and Rebecca; sons Edward and Brandon; and 11 grandchildren.

Edward grew up in Ohio where he attended Stivers High School. He accelerated in theatre and history with his best friend Ronnie Smith.

Ed served seven years in the Unites States Marine Corps from 1968 to 1975, earning the honorable ranking of sergeant. In the years of 1968-1969, he served as a field radio operator in the 1st Battalion 9th Marines (the “Walking Dead”) during the Vietnam War. He is remembered by his Marine Corps brothers as a fearless hero, a memorable prankster, and a very good friend.

He was a hero and a fighter to the end. He fought to take care of his family while battling Neurosarcoidosis for the last four years. In those last four years, he explored his passion for painting and reconnecting with old friends.

We would like to thank the Richmond and Salem Veteran Hospitals, as well as his Amedysis team who went above and beyond. We would like to give a special thanks to Jennifer, also Sharon and Rhonda from the CBOC for making us feel like family; thank you all.

A memorial service will be held at Arlington Cemetery, to be announced at a later date. Semper Fi.