Culp Founder and Chairman Dies

December 12, 2018  by Laurie Northington in Industry, Obituaries   

Culp founded the company in 1972 with his father, Robert G. Culp, Jr. He was named CEO in 1981 and served in that capacity until 2007. He served as chairman of the board of directors since 1990. Under his leadership, the company has become one of the world’s largest marketers of mattress fabrics for bedding and upholstery fabrics for furniture with global operations and approximately 1,400 employees worldwide.

Respected throughout the home furnishings industry, Culp remained active in trade associations throughout his career. He was also deeply committed to his home community of High Point through various philanthropic efforts along with his service on the downtown advisory board and as a trustee of High Point University.

Culp was an avid supporter of his alma mater, the University of North Carolina, where he received his bachelor’s degree in economics. He earned his MBA from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. Culp served as a member of the board of directors of Old Dominion Freight Line, Leggett & Platt and Slumberland.

“We deeply mourn the passing of our beloved friend, colleague, and one of the company’s founders, Rob Culp,” said Frank Saxon, vice chairman and CEO. “He was widely recognized as a visionary and passionate leader who built a company known for innovation and an unwavering commitment to our customers. He carried this same vision with him in all activities with the company, and he inspired everyone around him to strive for the same standards of personal character and work ethic as he did.

“Rob had valued relationships and deep ties within our industry, and he was highly admired and respected both within our organization and throughout the markets we serve,” added Saxon. "He will be greatly missed, especially for his sharp wit, generosity and kindness. Inspired by his example, everyone associated with Culp remains committed to Rob’s vision of excellence, and we will continue to honor his memory in the management of Culp in the years to come. As chief operating officer and president of Culp Home Fashions, Iv Culp will play an important role in extending the legacy of his father and grandfather, and I look forward to our continued work together. On behalf of the management team and board of directors, we extend our deepest sympathies to Rob’s wife, Susan, and to Iv and the entire Culp family.”