Stella Juliet Cullington

In loving memory of

Stella Juliet Cullington

21 Aug 1938 - 15 Jun 2026

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On June 15, 2026, peacefully at her home, surrounded by family; aged 87 years.  Beloved wife of Don for 60 years, beloved mother and mother-in-law of Fiona and Neil, and Lorna and Foued, cherished grandmother of Benjamin, and Gemma.  Special thanks to the staff of The Otago Community Hospice, who cared for Stella in her final days. 
- A Memorial Service for Stella will be held at St Paul's Cathedral, The Octagon, Dunedin at 2pm on Tuesday, June 30. In lieu of flowers donations for Hato Hone St John would be appreciated and may be left at the service.  Messages can be left on Stella's below.

Service details

The service was held on 23 Jun 2026.

Live stream

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Messages

Bernagh Brims

Cherished memories of the many years Stella was a valued cellist and chairman of the Studio Symphony Orchestra in Belfast, N.Ireland. Since her move to NZ Stella kept in touch with the orchestra and her friends there, and she and Don welcomed several of them to their lovely house in Dunedin. She was a very special person whom we miss and remember with great love.

Shauna Doherty

On behalf of Lorna’s colleagues in the English-language unit of the Council of the European Union in Brussels, I would like to express our deepest sympathy to Lorna and the entire family on the passing of her dear mum. May Stella’s gentle soul rest in peace.

Ruth Empson

Sending you all love and prayers as we remember Stella, may she rest in peace and rise in glory. It was such a privilege to know and love Stella as a fearless and invincible woman who was driven by compassion and faithfulness from her very core. I will always remember Stella and Don's kindness and hospitality, particularly my very fond memory of sharing a haggis dinner with you both just before I left NZ to return to the UK. This was all the more poignant as I had haggis for my tea the night Stella died, and you were both so fondly in my thoughts that evening. To Don and all your amazing family, please accept my heartfelt condolences, and may you all be comforted and held by God's infinite love and care.

Philippa Harris

The Dunedin Symphony Orchestra is deeply saddened to learn the news of Stella’s death and we extend our heart-felt sympathies to Donald and the family. Stella and Donald have been staunch supporters of the orchestra for many years, and she will be very much missed.

Pukehiki Church Trust

The Trustees are very saddened to hear of Stella's passing. She has been a long time "Friend" and supporter of Pukehiki Church and will be greatly missed. Thinking of you, Don, and the family at this sad time.

Edna Cole

Deepest sympathy for your loss. She was a very friendly and professional doctor in her care for me.⚘️

John and Christine Burton

We were both very sad to hear of Stella's passing and send our deepest sympathy to you, Don, and members of your family. We remember you both, fondly, from way back when you and Stella first arrived in Dunedin. Much later, I (John) worked with Stella on the Vestry of St Paul's Cathedral and remember the strong contribution she made. Please accept our love and sympathy.

Alan Roddick

I am sad to know of Stella's death, and would like to offer my condolences to you, Don, and to your family. The view over the Harbour will not be the same without her presence at your side.

ROSEMARY BULMAN

Writing this tribute on behalf of my husband and daughter to express our sadness of the passing of Stella, who was a very dear friend of my mother and late father, Betty and Douglas Rawlings . My parents enjoyed many happy and special times together with the Donald and Stella and have fond memories of staying in the Cullington's holiday home in the beautiful Arrowtown. We know that my mother will greatly miss Stella. Our thoughts and prayers are with Donald and family members. God Bless Rosemary Bulman(nee Rawlings), with Allan and Amy.

Anglican Family Care

We acknowledge with deep gratitude and sadness the passing of Stella, a treasured supporter of Anglican Family Care. Her loyal and steadfast support of our mahi, through her giving, helped our team deliver connection, hope, and opportunity for those who needed it most. She will be greatly missed by all of us at Anglican Family Care. Our thoughts are with Donald and her loved ones at this time. Donna and Sarah (Anglican Family Care)

Patrick Power

To Don and Family, I was sadden to hear of Stella’s passing. Many was the time she would tell me about their latest island adventure or some family news. I always enjoyed her visits to Macandrew Bay Pharmacy.