With deepest sorrow we at Henryhand Funeral Home regret to announce the passing of Luester McCullough, 90 of Kingstree, SC, who passed away on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.

Life Reflections

Luester McCullough was born on April 4, 1936, to the late Ethel McKnight McCullough and C. Wright Friday McCullough. One of eight siblings, Luester lived a remarkable 90 years defined by courage, discipline, professionalism, service, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the people and community she loved.

Luester was a trailblazer whose life of public service broke barriers and opened doors for others. She made history as one of the first African American women to serve in law enforcement in her community. Through her dedication, professionalism, and leadership, she rose through the ranks and attained the rank of Lieutenant before retiring from law enforcement in the early 1990s.

Retirement did not mark the end of Luester's commitment to public service. She continued serving the people of Kingstree, South Carolina, as a member of the Kingstree Town Council for nearly 28 years. During her distinguished tenure, she also served as Mayor Pro-Tem. Her years in public service reflected the qualities that defined her character: strength, fairness, integrity, discipline, and a deep sense of responsibility to those she represented.

Luester's service was also deeply rooted in her faith. She was an active and devoted member of St. Michael United Methodist Church, where she faithfully served on numerous committees. Her presence, her voice, and her commitment enriched the congregation and touched the lives of many. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life and an important part of the legacy she leaves behind.

In April 2026, Luester joyfully celebrated her 90th year of life, surrounded by love, family, and gratitude for a life richly lived. Shortly after reaching this remarkable milestone, her health began to decline. On September 9, 2026, Luester peacefully succumbed to her illness, bringing to a close a life marked by service, leadership, faith, and an extraordinary commitment to others.

Luester was preceded in death by: her parents, Ethel McKnight McCullough and C. Wright Friday McCullough; her brothers, Robert Lee McCullough of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Ernest McCullough of New York City, along with their wives, Priscilla McCullough and Helen McCullough; her sisters, Lottie B. Johnson of New York, and her husband, Henry Johnson, Thomasina McCullough of New York, Pernether Montgomery of New York City; and Lily Mae Cornell of Kingstree, South Carolina.

She leaves to cherish her memory: her sister, Ethelene McCullough of Stamford, Connecticut; a host of nieces and nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews; extended family; her church family; lifelong friends; and countless individuals whose lives were touched by her presence, leadership, and years of service.

Luester McCullough served with distinction. She led with purpose. She broke barriers. She gave of herself to her community, her church, her family, and the people she was called to serve.

Her watch is now over. Her service is complete. But the legacy of Lieutenant Luester McCullough will continue to live on in the lives she touched and the community she helped shape.

Rest well, Lieutenant. You have served

your community faithfully.

All arrangements and professional services have been entrusted to Henryhand Funeral Home of Kingstree, SC. 843-354-2292.