James J. McCullough, theater enthusiast, dies

Some people are born to be stars, and then there are others whose dedication and generosity make them famous within their community.

That was how loved ones and fellow thespians described James Joseph "Jay" McCullough, a well-known actor, singer and director in Richmond's performing-arts scene.

He died Saturday of lung cancer at age 61.

Those who knew him tell stories of a joyful man whose heart was devoted to the theater -- any and all of them.

He was born in Weirton, W.Va., and graduated from the Boston Conservatory of Music.

Mr. McCullough worked with the Barksdale Theatre at Hanover Tavern, Swift Creek Mill Playhouse, Encore Theater Company, Chamberlayne Actors Theater, Henrico Theater Company, Theater Company at Fort Lee, Brandermill Community Theater, the Festival of the Arts at Dogwood Dell and others.

He sang baritone for the Richmond Men's Chorus, and served on the board of directors for the Richmond Triangle Players.

Thanks to a job transfer, McCullough spent more than two years in England and worked with the Nottingham Arts Theatre.

"His stellar reputation was based not on his being a star, but rather on his role as a steadfast pillar of support" for the arts community in Richmond, said Bruce Miller, artistic director at Barksdale and Theatre IV.

However, people will remember him for "his friendliness, his commitment and his total belief in the value and importance of live theatre," Miller said.

Mr. McCullough's companion, Don Warren Jr., said his partner of 18 years had "the most wonderful laugh."

"People knew that he was in the audience when they heard him laugh," Warren said.

He really loved the arts community and would do anything for them," said Tim Gillham, artistic director for the Richmond Men's and Women's Chorus.

John Knapp, board of directors vice president for the Richmond Triangle Players, remember Mr. McCullough as someone who was confident both in front of an audience and as a director.

"He was a very giving human being," Knapp said.

In addition to Don Warren Jr., survivors include two sons, Christian James McCullough of Chesterfield County and Joseph William McCullough of Richmond; their mother, Suzanne Ferguson, of Chesterfield; two brothers, Robert C. McCullough of Ohio and Michael McCullough of Illinois; and a sister, Stephanie Gurrera of West Virginia.

The family will receive guests Wednesday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Bliley's Funeral Home, 3801 Augusta Ave. A funeral will be held there Thursday at 2 p.m. Interment will be private.

Contact Holly Prestidge at (804) 649-6945 or .