Leon Alonzo Cullison, Jr., affectionately known as “Dictator,” passed away on March 19, 2025, at the age of 96 at Washington Hospital Center. A lifelong resident of Ridge, Maryland, Leon was born on April 26, 1928, in Washington, D.C., to the late Leon Cullison, Sr. and Carolyn McKay Evans.

Leon was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 75 years, Mildred Cullison, and their son, Richard Cullison. He is survived by his devoted daughter, Kay Carter of St. Inigoes, MD; sons Joseph Cullison of Incline Village, NV, and David Cullison (Cathy) of California, MD. He also lovingly embraced Shirley Gatton Jones of Mechanicsville, MD, as a daughter since she was five years old.

Leon was a proud grandfather to John “Jay” Carter of Lexington Park, MD; Ashley Cullison of Leonardtown, MD; and Frank Cullison of Scranton, PA. He was also blessed with six great-grandchildren—Cheyenne, Cierra, Cydnee, and Jason Carter; Frank Jr. and Wyatt Cullison—and one great-great-grandson, Max Carter.

He was preceded in death by siblings Jacqueline Bair, Joan Layne, Richard Cullison, and Sharon Long. He is survived by his sister, Judy Gravatt of Pasadena, MD, and his brother, Lindesy Cullison (Delores) of Waldorf, MD.

Leon dedicated over three decades of his life to civil service at the Patuxent River Naval Air Station, retiring at the young age of 48 after 32 years of service. His commitment to the community continued through his lifelong involvement with the Ridge Volunteer Fire Department, where he served for an extraordinary 75 years in roles including President, Treasurer, and Board Member. His exemplary service was recently recognized with both the President’s Award and the Chief’s Award.

Leon also held leadership positions beyond Ridge, having served as a past president of the Southern Maryland Firemen’s Association and as a delegate to the Maryland State Firemen’s Association. He was honored with induction into both organizations’ Halls of Fame, a testament to his unwavering dedication.

His community service extended even further—as a past member of the St. Mary’s County Liquor Board, and as a member of the Knights of Columbus. A lifelong and faithful parishioner of St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Leon’s faith was the foundation of his life. He was awarded the Archdiocese of Washington’s “Order of Merit” medal for his outstanding service to the Church.

Leon enjoyed life’s simple pleasures—playing cards (especially pitch), watching horse races, and playing and watching golf. He played in the Slowpitch Softball League for many years and was inducted into the St. Mary’s County Softball Hall of Fame. Yet above all, his greatest joy was his family. He cherished traveling with his beloved wife, annual family trips to Ocean City, and sharing home-cooked meals with loved ones.

An icon in the Ridge community, Leon’s presence, humor, and generosity will be deeply missed.

Visitation and Services
Family and friends are invited to gather on Thursday, March 27, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Ridge, MD. Prayers will be offered at 7:00 PM by Father Keith Burney.
A funeral Mass will be held on Friday, March 28, at St. Michael’s Church, with visitation from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by the service at noon, officiated by Father Karl Chimiak. Interment will follow.

Pallbearers: Keith Raley, Peanut Gatton, Tony Ridgell, and Robbie Wood
Honorary Pallbearers: Members of the Ridge Volunteer Fire Department

In Lieu of Flowers
Donations in Leon’s memory may be made to:

St. Michael’s Church, 16566 Three Notch Road, Ridge, MD 20680

Ridge Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 520, Ridge, MD 20680

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.brinsfieldfuneral.com

Arrangements by Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown