Warren (Ali) Lamonte McCullough

Under the loving eyes of his ‘Granny’ (the late Norva Mundy McCullough) he blossomed into a well-mannered and highly intelligent young boy. He sang in the church choir at Browns Chapel UMC and led songs at an early age. Ali began his education at Catawba Elementary School. At eight years of age, he moved to Ypsilanti, MI where he attended Chapel Elementary, West Middle School, and Ypsilanti High School. He excelled in school and sports and was an All-Star baseball player collecting trophies and championships throughout middle and high school. His children also inherited his love of baseball and softball where they played on numerous winning teams. He later returned to North Carolina where he graduated his Senior year from Bandys High School. Ali sang with the Catawba County Mass Choir traveling throughout North Carolina drawing large crowds as they praised God in song. After graduating Bandys, he attended Howard University in Washington, DC on a full academic scholarship. At the time of his death, Ali was employed by Faurecia Interior Systems Inc. in Saline. He was previously employed by Oren W. Troup Trucking Co (US mail carrier) for over twenty years.

Ali was a popular and well-liked people person. You always knew when he was around from his loud infectious laughter. He wore many hats including looking out for his younger brother Malik while their single mother worked. Because of his love of music, he introduced his family, friends, and acquaintances to a wide genre of music; including Classical, Reggae, R&B, Soul, Blues, and Gospel. In elementary school Ali met Clark Williams and Ledon Clayborn where they formed a lifelong friendship as close as brothers. Along with Ali they also lovingly referred to Jamilah as ‘Mama’.

At the Mundy Family Reunions which were held at Motts Grove Campground, he loved going to the Arbor and singing with his family. During the family meals, Ali also relished his role as the ‘master fish fryer’. He loved the fact that everyone stood in line with plates in hand.

Ali will be greatly missed!