One of Houston’s Most Beloved Philanthropists is Honored While a US Army Burn Survivor Delivers a Powerful Message

It was a silk-stocking contingent, 300 strong, the poured into the ballroom of River Oaks Country Club to honor one of Houston’s most beloved philanthropists and community volunteers — Rose Cullen, recipient of the Laura Lee Blanton Community Spirit Award at the 23rd annual dinner benefiting Houston Hospice.

The Blanton family led the impressive turnout with Elizabeth Wareing, daughter of the late Laura Lee Blanton, presenting the award to Cullen. She was accompanied by her husband, Peter Wareing, and her brother and his wife, Eddy and Kelli Blanton.

Honorary chair Linda McReynolds, on the arm of husband Dr. Walter McReynolds, continued the who’s who lineup of Houston society with their table that included Judy and Charles Tate, Molly and Jim Crownover, and Lynn Wyatt.

The success of the event, which raised $350,000 for Houston Hospice programs, could be attributed to Cullen, to dinner chairs Cathy Brock and Franelle Rogers, and to the rich legacy of Laura Lee Blanton.

Guest speaker J.R.Martinez — the US Army burn survivor, best-selling author, motivational speaker and Dancing With the Stars contestant — delivered a message of optimism and resilience. Impressive in his presentation, Martinez made his points through humor and thoughtfulness. He earned standing ovations before and after his inspirational talk. Martinez was introduced by Bob Livermore, an Air Force veteran who had flown Air Force One under President Gerald Ford.

In a special tribute to the honoree, ballroom tables were topped with centerpieces overflowing with various colors of roses, a gift from Richard Flowers and The Events Company in honor of Cullen.

PC Seen: Beth Robertson, Lillie Robertson, Barbara Robertson, Carroll Ray, Kathy McCord, Sarah McCord, Jeanie Kilroy Wilson and Wally Wilson, Emily Crosswell, Donna Chapman, Cathy and Giorgio Borlenghi, Lesha and Tom Elsenbrook, Leisa Holland Nelson and Bob Bowman, Dr. Gary Brock, Robert Sakowitz, Cabrina and Steven Owsley, and Christine and Paul Mansfield.