Don Culwell of Marietta, OK, was born on May 17, 1946, in Meadowbrook, OK, to James Andrew and Hazel Addie (Matthews) Culwell. He passed away at his home in Marietta on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at the age of 80.

Don graduated from Turner High School and began a lengthy career as a mechanic at Butch's Garage. In September of 69 he married Patsy Riley, gaining a daughter Melissa. Although their marriage ended, their friendship never did. He was happiest spending time on his front porch, where he enjoyed watching hummingbirds, drinking coffee, smoking Pall Mall Select Blue shorts and visiting with anyone who stopped by. He also loved fishing and never missed an opportunity to be where family and friends were gathered.

In his younger years you could find Don at any local dirt track watching Butch's Garage #7 push the family’s mechanic skills to the max.

Don was always a phone call away for anyone in need, whether it be a ride to the doctor, a ride to and from work or transporting delinquents to school to make sure they graduated. He was not above an occasional beer run for a daughter (or son-in-law) in need. He had to keep everyone safe.

Known by many as "Don Pester," he had a playful spirit that brought laughter to those around him. During his lifetime, Don became a devoted member of Alcoholics Anonymous, where he faithfully chaired the Loco Group, sponsored and encouraged many others on their journey to recovery, while maintaining his own sobriety for over 30 years. His willingness to help others and share his experiences left a lasting impact on countless lives.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, James Andrew and Hazel Addie Culwell; daughter, Melissa “Missy” Dunn; the mother of his daughters Patsy Riley; brothers, Butch Culwell, Gus Culwell and Edard Culwell; and sisters, Barbara Culwell Elliott and Cathy Culwell.

Those left to cherish his memory include his daughters, Dawnita Sampson and husband Jason of Marietta and Donna Rains and husband Tim of Marietta; grandchildren, Aaron Dunn and wife Lisa, Asher Hartman and wife Paige, and T.J. Rains; great-granddaughter, Henley Kay Hartman; his beloved fur babies, Sweetheart and Little Buddy; special niece, Marcella Kirk; along with numerous extended family members and many dear friends.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 24, 2026, at the Flanagan-Watts Funeral Home Chapel with Lawrence Anderson officiating. Interment will follow at Lakeview Cemetery. A time of visitation for family and friends will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Thursday evening at Flanagan-Watts Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Serving as casket bearers will be Greg Culwell, Garrett “Snuffy" Culwell, BJ Culwell, Bryson Culwell, Asher Hartman and TJ Rains. Honorary casket bearers are Leda Furrh, Kirk Timke, Jack Kirk, Laci Ann Ellison, Shane Kirk, and friends of AA.