Obituary
Edward Noel (Buffy) Cullinan
12/25/1942 – 7/24/2019
Devoted son of the late Lt. Col. Edward John and Thelma Louise Cullinan. Brother of Michael Philip Cullinan (Anna), Jan Derek Cullinan (Debbie), Gail Louise Cullinan-Poels (Joe). Also survived by Aunt Helen Cullinan and a family of cousins, nieces and nephews.
Mr. Cullinan served his country in the U.S. Air Force. He chose the Orlando Police Department for his career and during this time he earned a degree from Rollins College while achieving and retiring at the rank of Captain.
In 1982 then Lt. Cullinan had a vision of bringing Central Florida SWAT teams together to train, compete and share ideas. The first SWAT Round Up was held that fall and this year The SWAT Roundup International will celebrate its 37th anniversary.
Love to his brothers and sister
12/25/1942 – 7/24/2019
My sincere condolences to all of Spider's family, friends and colleagues. Like others here, I first met Spider in Mount St. Agnes, Hamilton, Bermuda, beginning of school year Fall of 1959. We were schoolmates and not the closest of friends. I am Bermudian and Spider being American lived on the base. We were friendly and got along fine. As the years passed and we attended high school reunions, we became friends, and since out 50th reunion, 2010, we became closer with each of us visiting the other. My wife really enjoyed his company and personality...….Spider was calm, collected and always soft spoken and a very good listener. It wasn't until I visited him in Panama City that I learned about all his talents and about his work and his SWAT team......I had to drag it out of him, but the several times we were together, I kept questioning him and he enjoyed talking about the men on the team and "their" accomplishments. He told me about a number of them and showed me photos, commendations, awards and always praised The Team. He was very proud of his team and of the SWAT Roundup that he started and invited me to go with him. I missed 2018, because of travel, but were going to go together in 2019....I won’t make that, but I will wager that his team member and many others will toast and remember their Captain with glasses high and tales of him. He was always the epitome of calm and control to me. I remember his patience, his kindness and his goodwill of and for others. He did not speak unkindly to me of anyone. You are a good man Spider and I will sorely miss you, your company and the ease at which we sat together and discussed many people and subjects. Look on us from above and help guide us, to be better folk. I know you are in the best place.
May we meet again.
Your friend always Spider
Luis
R. Luis Villafaña
Spider at Mount St. Agnes 50th reunion, 2010, Williamsburg, Virginia
How fortunate we were to re-connect with you two years ago at your Mother's memorial service. For me, you will always be that handsome young man with the jet-black hair who I looked up to. It was so pleasant to sit and talk to you one last time. Until we meet again, may the Lord hold you in the palm of His hand.
Brother,
This is truly a moment when no written word can describe the depth of our sorrow. You will always be remembered for your compassion and love of life. You stood tall and your accomplishments gave you the right to do so. Know that you will always be loved and surrounded by the people who knew and respected you.
Farewell my brother, rest easy.
Michael & Anna
Great sadness fills our hearts today
As pipes and drums, in slow march play.
A comrade’s fallen by the way,
And now we say goodbye.
This hero to the very end
Was more than just a casual friend,
Who would a stranger’s life defend,
And now we say goodbye
But we shall cherish, all our days,
The character this life portrayed
With sacrifice so freely made,
And now we say goodbye.
The hand salute, o’er Stars and Stripes,
And distant skirl of highland pipes,
Bid last farewell with hero’s rights,
And now we say goodbye.
While here on Earth, you gave your best.
Now in the Master’s arms you rest.
T’is by your memory we are blessed.
And now we say goodbye.
© Howard G. Yates
We all love and miss you so much, Uncle Noel.
We loved your wonderful sense of humor and wit. You always had an interesting story to tell. We love you and miss you terribly.
Sending you hugs,
Jan, Debbie and Dallas
WE MISS YOU TERRIBLY BROTHER.
LOVE,
MICHAEL & ANNA