Born in High Point, North Carolina, "Dick" Culler graduated from High Point College in 1935, where he excelled in basketball, soccer, and baseball. Known as one of the most intelligent fielders, Culler played shortstop during most of his career. 

He spent one year with the Coolemee Cools then joined the Concord Weavers in 1936. Signed by legendary Connie Mack to play for the Philadelphia Athletics for one year, Culler enjoyed his first season in the majors and could afford to finally marry his college sweetheart, Evelyn Williams. Due to his new bride's illness, Culler returned to Concord to coach high school baseball and play with the Weavers in 1938.

He soon left again to play in several minor teams before signing with the Chicago White Sox in 1943. The White Sox sold him to the Milwaukee Braves. From there, Culler played for the Boston Braves for a number of years before moving on to the Chicago Cubs followed by the New York Giants. When he retired in 1950, Culler was playing for the Baltimore Orioles who were with the International League. During his career, Culler opened a sporting goods store which he ran after retiring from baseball.