Ellen Roberta Philips Cullman, 77, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2026, in Waterville, Ohio.
Ellen was the daughter of Edna Mae and Erwin Robert Philips. Born on December 31, 1948, in Kenton, Ohio. Ellen built lasting friendships growing up in Kenton and she was homecoming queen in 1966 at Kenton Senior High. Ellen went on to attend The Ohio State University, where she earned a degree in Home Economics, and then taught high school in Mansfield, Ohio. As a young adult she put her faith in Jesus, and it guided her throughout her life. Driven by a passion for understanding and helping others, Ellen later continued her education at Bowling Green State University, where she earned her doctorate in Clinical Psychology.
Ellen is survived by her beloved husband, Richard Lewis Cullman; her children, Deborah Ann Cullman and Benjamin Philips Cullman (and his wife, Carestin); and her cherished grandchildren, Jordan Anah DeCessna (and her husband, John), Hailey Juniper Lambdin, Solomon Max Lambdin, Asher Charles Cullman, and Lilyanne Cecilia Cullman; and her siblings, Linda Vretta, Jane Baker, and Robert Philips (and his wife Carol).
Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Margaret Jean, and brother-in-law Bruce Baker.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice Foundation of America online or by mail. To donate online, visit hospicefoundation.org/donate, or print a donation form and mail it with a check payable to Hospice Foundation of America at: 1707 L St. NW, Suite 220, Washington, DC 20036.
Ellen will be remembered as a colorful and creative spirit with a brilliant mind and a natural gift for problem-solving. She was a deeply engaging conversationalist, known for her quick wit, warmth, and the way she could bring both insight and humor into every interaction.
Ellen and Richard were blessed with 52 years of marriage together, a steadfast and enduring love defined by devotion and built on a common desire to help people navigate and improve their lives.
She was also an accomplished sewer and enjoyed crochet, often creating handmade pieces that reflected her care and creativity. A collector at heart, she delighted in antiques and unique, whimsical finds that told their own quiet stories. Ellen also had a love of poetry and leaves behind a collection of her own poems, reflecting her thoughtful and expressive spirit.
A gathering celebrating the life of Ellen will be held on May 20, 2026, from 5:00-8:00 p.m., with a poetry reading and time of sharing beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Simpson Garden Park, 1291 Conneaut Avenue, Bowling Green, Ohio 43402. Light appetizers and beverages will be served.
