Gary W. Cutrell

Gary W. Cutrell, a talented photographer, devoted husband, father, and compassionate soul, was embraced by the loving arms of his late wife, Kay W. Cutrell, and late son, Gregory Justin Cutrell, as he entered the gates of heaven on Tuesday, July 18, 2023. At the age of 75, Gary's remarkable journey on earth came to a peaceful close, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, ingenuity, and kindness.

The son of the late Myron K. Cutrell and Florence Irene Cutrell, Gary was born on a hog and chicken farm near Indianapolis, Indiana, on August 7, 1947. In 1953, his family settled in Fort Valley, where they resided on a sprawling 640-acre farm. Even from a young age, Gary displayed a keen eye for creativity and an innate curiosity about the world around him. At the age of 12, Gary's passion for photography was ignited during a school field trip, and the fascination continued to grow throughout his life. In high school, Gary showcased his musical talents as the lead guitarist in three different rock bands. In 1967, he proudly joined the United States Air Force and became a jet engine mechanic, working on small gas turbines. While stationed at Charleston Air Force Base, he worked on the C124, C141, and C5 aircrafts. Gary also worked on the F-15 Fighter. Over a span of 21 years dedicated to his craft, he designed tools for the United States Air Force that remain in use to this day. Gary’s inventive nature consistently led him to create contraptions that simplified tasks and improved efficiency. He secured several U.S. patents.

After the military, Gary worked as a draftsman for prominent landscape architect for 4 ½ years. Gary went on to study at the Famous Photographer’s School, and trained under the top photographers of Life Magazine, Look, People, and other renowned publications from 1970 to 1974. He also taught himself several photography techniques and anything else that he wanted to know. Starting out as a door-to-door location photographer out in the country, his career quickly flourished to 75 magazine covers, approximately 300 brochures, about 12 billboards. His creative eye also extended to the realm of television commercials, where he not only photographed but also provided artistic direction. Gary also photographed over 500 weddings while also working as a photographer on Robins Air Force Base for many years. His impressive portfolio offered a wade range of portraits, life-style, wedding, and artistic, but his favorite subjects were fashion and advertising.

Beyond his mastery of the lens, Gary possessed a multifaceted artistic talent, finding joy in drawing and painting. A self-proclaimed, “damn good mechanic,” he could fix just about anything that he worked on. Gary also loved animals, and even helped a cow deliver her calf on the side of a road. Though not one for embraces, Gary's gentle heart touched the lives of those around him. His undeniable talents and remarkable intelligence were evident to all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Gary W. Cutrell leaves behind a rich legacy of creativity, ingenuity, and warmth. While his absence will be deeply felt, his memory will forever inspire those who knew him. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of experiencing his immense talent and kind-hearted nature.

His memory will forever be treasured by his daughter, Christy I. Cutrell of Fort Valley; two grandchildren, Christian and Elijah; siblings, Wayne Cutrell (Kathy) of Fort Myers, Florida, Karen Hartley of Perry, Georgia, and Myron Cutrell (Nena) of Fort Valley; as well as his aunt, Erma “Wynema” Rider.

Visitation will be Friday, July 21, 2023, from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at McCullough Funeral Home. A funeral service will immediately follow at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of McCullough Funeral Home. Afterward, Gary W. Cutrell will be laid to rest in the Magnolia Park Mausoleum with Military Honors.

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.