Francis Cutts Fulmer, owned The Crab Barn

Francis Cutts “Frank” Fulmer, 83, of Georgetown, passed away peacefully at his home Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Philadelphia, Pa., Dec. 22, 1941, Frank was the son of the late Francis Cutts Fulmer Jr. and the late Madge (Walton) Fulmer. A beloved and iconic figure in the Long Neck community, Frank spent his life devoted to the restaurant industry. He proudly owned and operated several well-known establishments in the area, leaving a lasting imprint on local dining.

Frank’s first restaurant, The Crab Barn, opened in 1983 and introduced the concept of all-you-can-eat crabs to Long Neck. His business later expanded to three locations in the Long Neck area and one in Rehoboth Beach. After retiring, Frank spent 12 years enjoying hobbies such as building model airplanes, gardening, traveling, and competing as a World Poker Tour professional. Yet, his love for the restaurant world—and the fellowship of his loyal customers—ultimately drew him back. In 2018, he opened The Crab Barn Restaurant on Long Neck Road, a venture that brought him tremendous joy in his later years.

Frank is survived by his devoted wife and best friend of 45 years, Denise (Ireland) Fulmer; his grandchildren, Alan Fulmer, Jessica Fulmer and Nicole Fulmer; his great-grandsons, Xander Fulmer and Beau Fulmer; his sister, Linda Gabbamonte; and two half-brothers, William Fulmer and Charles Fulmer.

A visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to noon, Tuesday, Dec. 16, at the Long Neck Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 32013 Long Neck Road, Millsboro. A celebration of Frank’s life will follow at noon.

In honor of Frank’s lifelong love of animals, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Brandywine Valley SPCA, 22918 DuPont Blvd., Georgetown, DE 19947.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting melsonfuneralservices.com.