Jake R. Culotta, Sr.

Jake Robert Culotta, Sr. passed away Friday, January 8th, 2021. He was born on June 3rd, 1921 in Birmingham, Alabama. He was one of ten children born to the late Rosa Maranto Culotta and Nicolo (Sam) Rosario Culotta. Jake was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

Jake was preceded in death by his loving wife of 66 years, Rose G. Culotta, and by his daughter Lisa Sharon.

He is survived by his sister, Josephine Jovings of Birmingham, Alabama; his children Diane Allen and Loretta Winnette (Jim) of Atlanta, Georgia, Jake R. Culotta Jr. (Kerri) of Birmingham, Alabama, and Joan Creel (Kirk, deceased) of Jacksonville, Florida; his grandchildren, Melissa Winnette Hardison (Todd), Jake R. Culotta III, Christopher Winnette, Peter Culotta, Mary Catherine Culotta, Rachel Culotta Mostellar (Bishop), and Jessica Creel.

Jake was a decorated war veteran of World War II serving honorably in the US Army in the Pacific Theater where he achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant. He was a master watchmaker/ jeweler and cofounded and operated the Birmingham landmark store, TimeKeepers, Inc, for 25 years with his partner Woody Castleberry. Jake was a founding member of Prince of Peace Catholic Church where he and Rose were devoted parishioners for 37 years. Jake and Rose were lifetime members of Concordia Dance Club as they shared a love and passion for ballroom dancing. Jake believed happiness came from serving others and the one thing you would never regret was raising a family. He was honest, kind, and a devout Catholic that lived his faith in every detail of his life. He was the finest example of how to grow old while still finding joy in the simplest things in life. He will not only be remembered as a member of the greatest generation, small business owner, and leader in his community but also as a gifted gardener, storyteller, pie-maker, and rummy-player.

A private funeral mass will be celebrated on Saturday, January 30th, 2021 at Prince of Peace Catholic Church. He will be laid to rest at Currie-Jefferson Memorial Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Prince of Peace Catholic Church.

The family wishes to express their sincerest appreciation for the loving care he received from Amelia Sosa and all of the dedicated staff at the VA Hospital with special thanks to Carolyn Gruber and Adrienne Curry.