Rebecca Anne McCullough, 79, died Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, at her home in Burlington. Born Dec. 30, 1945, in Oskaloosa, she was the daughter of Alvin and Margaret McCaulley Adolphs. On Aug. 9, 1969, she married Michael McCullough in Oskaloosa.
Rebecca devoted her life to music. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in music from Drake University in 1968. She then worked as the orchestra director with the Burlington School District for over 30 years before retiring. During that time, she also worked as the choir director of the First Congregational Church in Burlington.
Music and family were Rebecca’s two loves in her life. She appreciated the profound beauty of music and used her skills to share her love with future generations. Her artistry also extended to homemade greeting cards, which she enjoyed making and giving out to those special people in her life. She enjoyed traveling and visiting family in other states or even going to important genealogical sights to learn more of her family’s history and heritage. She loved her family dearly and loved the time she spent with them.
Rebecca is survived by her husband Michael McCullough of Burlington; her daughter Heather (Troy) Smith of Burlington; grandchildren, Taylor and Shania Smith; great-grandchildren, Bentley and Mateo Smith; and sister, C. Jeanne (David) Patterson of Dubuque. She is also survived by many cousins and nieces, and nephews.
Sadly, she was preceded in death by her son Nathan Wade McCullough; siblings Constance Van Loon and Arlo W. Adolphs; and her parents Alvin and Margaret.
Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Prugh Crematory.
Visitation will be from 1:00 pm until 3:00 pm, Friday, Sept. 12, 2025, at First Congregational Church (313 N 4th St., Burlington).
The memorial service for Rebecca will be 3:00 pm Friday, September 12, 2025, at First Congregational Church with Pastor Jim Francisco officiating. A time of food and fellowship will be held at the church following the memorial service.
Memorial contributions in Rebecca’s memory may be made to the Southeast Iowa Symphony Orchestra.