Rachel Anne Cullen
Rachel Anne Cullen (née Quadt) of Arlington, Virginia, died on April 6, 2013, three years after being diagnosed with breast cancer and five months after her 40th birthday. Rachel is survived by beloved husband, Paul D. Cullen, Jr., her children, Grace (10), Vera (8) and Peter Cullen (4), her loving mother and father, Jonna and Robert Quadt of Reston, VA, and siblings David and Michelle Quadt of Ashburn, VA, Andrea and Tim Williams of Annapolis, MD, and John and Kim Pryor of Boone, NC. Rachel was predeceased by her mother Suzanne Quadt in 1993. She leaves behind a legacy of love with her family and dear friends.
In 1990 Rachel was in the second graduating class to spend four years at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, competing for the school in both soccer and basketball. She graduated from the University of Virginia in 1994, obtaining a double major in Psychology and French. Rachel spent her third year in college studying in Paris, France, where she developed a life long love affair with all things French. After graduating, Rachel returned to Paris for two years to teach English to French businessmen and to travel. She then returned home to work for several high-tech firms in the Northern Virginia area as a project manager.
Rachel and Paul met in 1997, and after a proposal at the top step of the west front of the U.S. Capitol, they married in 2000. Even in the busy years as a young mom, Rachel acted as president of the Mothers of North Arlington, and became a parenting counselor to teenage mothers for Borromeo Housing in Arlington, VA. She also made time to enjoy her love of reading, travel, community service, and friends and family.
She will be remembered for her easy smile and laugh and her ability to make a personal connection with each person she met. She had a strong faith, believing that, in the end, it is God's love that is at the center of it all.
A wake will be held at the Murphy Funeral Home in Falls Church, VA, on Thursday, April 11, from 4 to 8:00 p.m. www.murphyfuneralhomes.com. A funeral mass will be held at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Arlington, VA, on Friday, April 12, at 10:00 a.m. StCharlesChurch.org.
Instead of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Borromeo Housing, Inc., a non-profit organization whose mission is to help young single mothers to become responsible and self-sustaining members of our community. Borromeohousing.org
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
December 15, 2013
Paul Mitsuyama
I knew Rachel at UVA, where we were both members of a community service organization. We had lost touch over the years, but I have never forgotten her generous smile, her exuberant laugh, and her ability to make you feel at ease - it was as if you had known her all your life.
The other thing I will always remember - Rachel was a great dancer. She had great rhythm, and could put the rest of us to shame. Just thinking about that makes me smile, which is something I'm certain she did for people all her life.
We'll miss you, Rachel.
April 23, 2013
The Gertig Family
Rachel, you were a good soul. Always kind and quick with a laugh. The world is poorer for your passing. We love you and we'll miss you.
April 15, 2013
Shirley Van Milder
Rachel and I were good friends in school. She has always held a special place in my heart. Listening to and reading what everyone has been saying about Rachel fills me with joy when I think about the amazing woman she had become. Surely there is a new angel with a dazzling smile looking upon us from heaven. That is comforting. We love you Rachel.
April 14, 2013
Al & Orna Behar
We met Rachel only twice but once was enought to fall in love with her because she made it so easy. Rest in peace my beautiful friend, you will not be forgotten.
Al & Orna Behar
April 14, 2013
Al & Orna Behar
We met Rachel only twice but once was enought to fall in love with her because she made it so easy. Rest in peace my beautiful friend, you will not be forgotten.
Al & Orna Behar
April 13, 2013
Kim McGraw Karl Pupke
Dear Paul, I am so sorry. Rachel was such a beautiful, kind and wonderful person. Deepest sympathy to you and your family.
April 13, 2013
Frank & Peggy McGillin
Bob, Paul, Jonna and Family,
we are deeply saddened by the passing of Rachel. She was a special person.
April 12, 2013
Margie Johnson
Many of us had the pleasure of enjoying Rachel's wonderful spirit when she worked at Acumen Solutions. She is remembered as always offering a smile and a positive outlook. Our hearts are so sad with news of her loss, and we will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers. We will always smile when we think of her.
April 12, 2013
I met Rachel in Paris and keep many good souvenirs of her, I am really sad to learn that she's not there anymore and I wish her to rest in peace, I will never forget the moments we shared especially at "The violon Dingue" I especially think to your parents, husband and child and keep tke faith, she is still with you and wand you to be happy.
Anne(from France so excuse my english)
April 12, 2013
Manuel, Norma Roig
We met Rachel briefly when Peter had playmates with our grandson, Nico. She was a gracious, young woman and an obviously loving and devoted Mom. Our hearts are saddened by her passing and we are so sorry for your loss. Manuel & Norma Roig
April 11, 2013
Annie Cefaratti
Jonna and Bob, there are no words. I am sending you healing love and light. Xo Annie
April 11, 2013
Anne Ames
We are so sorry for your loss and are sending prayers to you and your family. Warmly, The Ames Family
April 11, 2013
Dear Paul and Family,
May you you feel comfort in your memories, and in knowing that Rachel not only loved, but was loved by many.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Alan and Donna MacEwen
April 11, 2013
John Tarpey
I feel very privileged to have had the experience of teaching Rachel and Paul's eldest daughter the past two years.
Rachel was an incredible advocate for her children and she will be greatly missed.
April 11, 2013
Paul Krizek
Dear Rachel,
You were so gracious, generous and kind. Rest in Peace.
- Paul and Tracey
April 11, 2013
Susan Lavington
From the moment I met her, Rachel struck me as an incredibly kind, smart, and joyful person. She always went out of her way to make other people feel special. I am so very sorry for your loss.
April 10, 2013
Cathleen Knapp
I remember even as a little girl at her wedding that she was so beautiful an that she always looked beautiful. She was always a loving mom and a great friend to all of the extended Cullen/Fairbanks family. I'm so blessed to have known her and I will miss her.
April 10, 2013
Barbara Woldan
Whenever we experience a loss, we are reminded of others who have passed, so the quote I like, is, "While you are mourning the loss of Rachel, others are rejoicing to meet her behind the veil." (adapted from John Taylor)
April 10, 2013
Trisha Jarvis
Dear Paul and Family,
Our hearts go out to you. Although we only spent a week together it seems we have known each other forever. Rachel reached out to me in a very special way and I think of our conversations often. She was so strong and spiritual and touched my life forever. Our Red Team was amazing our trip to Lourdes is a time we cherish.
Love and Blessings
Trish and Chris
April 10, 2013
Lauren
Absolutely beautiful picture. Her children and husband remain in our prayers. Lauren (Mona Mom)
April 10, 2013
Gail Kouril
My deepest condolences on your loss. I did not know Rachel but her happy face drew me to this notice. I am participating in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer in May and will add her name to my "In memory of" list to carry. I am very sorry for all her family and friends.
April 10, 2013
Tim Brickell
My thoughts and sympathy go out to Paul, family, friends and everyone who Rachel touched thoughout her life. She will truly be missed by all. My heart feels heavy on this day.
April 10, 2013
Tim Brickell
My thoughts and sympathy go out to Paul, family and friends and everyone who Rachel touched in her life. She will truly be missed. My heart feels heavy this day.
April 10, 2013
Reynolds Family
To the Cullen and Quadt Families: We were so sad to hear that Rachel had passed on. We hope the families can find peace in the knowledge that Rachel has moved on to a place were pain, suffering and illness are unknown. May God bring peace to you all.
With all our Prayers
The Reynolds Family
April 10, 2013
Marjorie Woldan
You could feel Rachel's good spirit in just a short meeting. She gave and received days of heaven on earth through her children, families and friends, and her own being, which in your memories will overcome the difficult years.
April 9, 2013
It can be so hard to face the first few days without your loved one, but may the love and comfort of family and friends carry you through this most difficult time. 1Thessalonians 5:14
April 9, 2013
Jim Moran
With deepest sympathy
April 9, 2013
The Carters
To the Cullen Family: We are sorry for your loss and hope that you can find comfort in the love of God and each other. We are so appreciative for the many lives that were touched by Rachel's acts of kindness and deeds of godly devotion. Jesus must have had her in mind when he made the promise at Luke 23:43. Rest in peace child of God as we look forward to God's promise of no more sickness and death.
April 9, 2013
Muri & Pat Dueppen
All of our love and sympathy goes out to Paul, Grace, Vera, Peter and all who grieve for Rachel. Such a super lady!
April 9, 2013
Funmi Oduolowu
Rachel's death really shocked me. I was at a UVA Alumni weekend when I heard. We were classmates at TJ and UVA. I hadn't spoken to Rachel in a while, but Facebook definitely helps you keep in touch. You will be missed my friend! I pray you are at peace and no longer in pain and I pray for comfort to those you left behind!!
April 9, 2013
Kristin Brown
Rachel,
This picture captures your essence perfectly. Your easy smile, your laugh, and your love of life. We will miss you in our lives, but see you all around when the world offers us beauty or joy.
--Kris and Mike Brown
April 9, 2013
The news of Rachel's death filled me with great sadness. Joe and my deepest sympathy is extended to Rachel's family. You remain as always in our prayers.
Rosemarie Annunziata
April 9, 2013
Susan and Stephan Levy
We will miss your beautiful smile and warm heart, and remember your friendship always. Wishing your family peace, love, and comfort from your wonderful memories of better times.
April 9, 2013
Laura, Chloe and Cynthia McCarty/Dillon
Rachel's loving presence will be missed but her spirit remains strong. Sending your family prayers and peace.
April 9, 2013
Suzanne Stratmann
What a beautiful woman and friend; what a terrible loss to the universe, but most especially to you, her family. My deepest sympathy goes out to you now. May you feel peace. Yours in grief, Suzanne Stratmann
April 9, 2013
Shannon & Mike Higgins
In loving memory of our friend, Rachel. We will miss you always. Sending our love and prayers to your family.
April 9, 2013
For the family, there are no words to ease your anguish at this time but I hope that the comfort from our heavenly Father and the love of family and friends help you to cherish joyful memories of your love one. Deepest sympathy.
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