March 7, 2024, 77, Goldsboro —

Polly Howell Culbreth, 77, entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior on Thursday, March 7, 2024, while surrounded by her family at home. Polly was born in Wayne County to the late Joe and Laurah Howell on January 26, 1947. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Arthur Paul Culbreth; son, Jeffrey Allen Culbreth and sister, JoAnn Smith.

Growing up on the family farm, Polly’s roots were deeply entrenched in her very being. Affectionately labeled a true Southern Belle, Polly was proud of her heritage and true to her raising. On the farm, her daddy would rescue animals and watch as Polly became a nurse and nurturer to each. It was in her spirit from the very beginning to take care of anything and anyone that needed help.

A 1965 graduate of New Hope High School, Polly retired from the Wayne County Public School system where she served as an accounts payable clerk for federal programs. For many years, Polly also helped her husband with his business, Culbreth Electrical Services.

Always dressed to the nines, Polly was sure to find shoes that matched her clothing, and her pocketbook and accessories were an equal complement. Though her children liked to joke that she was bougie, she simply took pride in what she was wearing, how she looked, and how she presented herself.

Style for Polly was equally evident in her abilities as a decorator. Lavishly decorating the home for the holidays, everything she placed looked perfect. A gracious and hospitable hostess, she was always ready to help her children and grandchildren throw the best parties.

Art and Polly were true loves, and nothing showed this more than when seeing the two on the dance floor. At home, Polly’s love for family was demonstrated through the many meals she prepared. Her love for cooking was compounded by the many that she brought around the table to share the meal. From her happy places at the beach and mountains to everyday visits at home, being with her family and spending time with them was her absolute delight.

The family will receive friends on Monday, March 11, 2024, from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home followed by a service to celebrate Polly’s life at 7:00 p.m. in the chapel with Pastor Jeff Dail officiating. Interment will be on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. in Wayne Memorial Park.

Polly is survived by her son, Anthony Culbreth, and wife, Christy; daughter, Pam Culbreth; grandchildren, Jennifer Strickland (Nicholas), Jacob Culbreth, and Alyssa Culbreth (Wesley Case); and great-grandchildren, Carsyn Rose and Lainey Strickland. She is also survived by a special family friend, Anita Baker.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be given in her memory to

Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.