Kelsie Weaver-Cullen

Kelsie Weaver Cullen-Martin March 22, 1940 – November 12, 2025

Kelsie Weaver Cullen-Martin passed away peacefully on November 12th after a valiant and courageous fight against cancer. Born on March 22, 1940, in Richmond, Virginia, to Pauline and Kemper Weaver, Kelsie was the eldest of three children and embraced her role as big sister.

In November of 1959, she married the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Cullen Sr. Together, they built a beautiful life, eventually settling in Raleigh, North Carolina, where they raised their three children. It was in Raleigh that Kelsie’s many talents flourished. A gifted designer, an unforgettable cook, and a natural hostess, she poured her passion into The Checkered Apron, the catering business she founded. For more than three decades she was a beloved fixture at countless weddings, parties, and corporate events, recognized not only for her impeccable taste but for the joy she brought into every gathering.

Kelsie and Bob later moved to Little Rock, Arkansas, where she continued forming deep friendships and making a lasting impression on all who knew her. The pull of grandchildren eventually brought them back to North Carolina. After Bob’s passing in 1999, Kelsie remained the steady, loving cornerstone of her family. In time, she found companionship again with Benny W. Martin, whom she married. Together, they made their home in Sandy Ridge, North Carolina, where they shared 23 years of partnership and community.

Kelsie was preceded in death by her first husband, Bob Cullen, and her parents, Pauline and Kemper Weaver. She is survived by her children: Robert Cullen Jr. (Tina), Carrie Edwards (Lee), and Jeffrey Cullen (Lori); her six grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; her brother and sister; and a circle of cherished friends.

Kelsie will be remembered for her generosity, her boundless creativity, and the way she made every person and every occasion feel special. Her legacy of love, family, and celebration lives on in all who were fortunate enough to know her.

The family will hold a private graveside service at a later date.