Local Legend David Culberson Passes Away

Central Alabama will remember David Culberson as the guy in the black-striped ref uniform. For decades, he was a fixture at high school football games, officiating hundreds since the 1960s. A 25-year veteran of the Alabama High School Athletic Association, he was a Friday night lights legend!

From Sylacauga to the Gridiron and Beyond

Culberson, a Sylacauga native, sadly passed away at his Birmingham home at 83 after a long battle with Parkinson's Disease. But with him went a treasure trove of knowledge about the music of the 50s and 60s!

Music Man Extraordinaire

He wasn't just a ref; David was a key figure in the Magic City Boppers and the Birmingham Record Collectors. Their annual record show drew Oldies music fans from all over the Southeast! He really knew his stuff.

Growing Up in Sylacauga

David's journey began in Sylacauga, where he graduated from B.B. Comer High School. That's where his passion for music ignited back in the 50s! Check out that pic of the Sylacauga Dairy Queen in '59 – David's in the white #41 football jersey! Recognize any other locals?

A Life Well-Lived

From Jefferson State Community College to the Army Air National Guard, David eventually settled in Birmingham and had a 40 year career as a computer programmer for UAB. He was married to his wife Cheryl for 58 years and loved trips to the "Hangout" in Panama City, Florida.

Storyteller and Music Aficionado

"No one could tell a story better than David." His obituary said it best. "His mind was a vault of details... to knowing every Oldies song."

Farewell to a Legend

Services were held for David on November 16th. He was laid to rest in Evergreen Memorial Cemetery in Sylacauga. He will be missed.