Joseph B. Mullen
Joseph B. Mullen, of Seekonk, a pillar of strength and love, passed away peacefully at the age of 91, surrounded by his loving family, on April 5, 2024 at the Rhode Island Veterans Home, where he was lovingly cared for by the entire staff.
Born in Somerville, MA, on October 3, 1932, he was the son of the late Joseph B. Mullen Sr. and Alice (Warren) Mullen. He was the loving husband of Charlene (Egan) Mullen to whom he had been married for 68 years. He was also the brother of Robert Mullen (Lila) and Geraldine Triangolo (late Alfred). Joe’s life was a testament to resilience, family bonds, and unwavering faith. His early years were spent in Somerset, MA and Tiverton, RI where he forged friendships and laid the foundation for a life well-lived. Joe’s legacy extended far beyond his own life; it was woven into the lives of his eight children - Joann Barao (Gil), Susan Hogan (Michael), Michael Mullen (Cheryl), Christine Gregorek (John), Timothy Mullen (Carolyn), David Mullen (Cindy), Kara Salit (David), and Patrick Mullen (Beth); twenty-two grandchildren - Travis (Kayla), Nick and Drew Barao; Mickey (Kristin) and Jack (Gillian) Hogan and Caroline (Ryan) Degnan; Ryan (Ali) and Sarah Mullen; Rachel, Johnny (Amy) and the late Patrick Gregorek; Jesse Mullen; Kate (Zach) Holme, Michael, Brendan (Tori) and Kevin Mullen; Jenny (Arin) Levenstein, Timmy, Matty (Peyton) and Brian Salit; and Adam and Maggie Mullen; and eleven great-grandchildren - Emily, James and Gabby Barao; Teddy and Russ Hogan; Fiona, Gwen, Maeve and Ryan Degnan; Esmé Holme; and Maggie Levenstein. Their laughter, their dreams, and their accomplishments were the true measure of Joe’s success.
Joe knew the importance of a college degree and, to that end, he worked as a full-time employee at night at the Cranston Printworks while maintaining his status as a full-time day student at Providence College. It was during those college years at PC that fate intervened. As Joe and his classmates gazed out the classroom window, waiting for the nursing students from nearby St. Joseph Nursing School, who attended PC for lab classes, to arrive, destiny revealed itself. Among the young ladies descending the bus steps, his eyes were drawn to Charlene Egan who would quickly become the love of his life. Their love story unfolded over decades, marked by shared dreams, whispered promises, and the quiet strength that only enduring love can provide. For sixty-eight years, they walked hand in hand, weathering life’s storms and celebrating its joys.
Joe enrolled in the ROTC at Providence College; upon graduation in 1954, he was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant in the U.S. army. Joe’s days were filled with hard work and dedication. Having fulfilled his service to his country, Joe navigated the commercial real estate industry with unwavering commitment, providing for his family and leaving an indelible mark on the landscape he helped shape.
Joe was a devout catholic and a man of deep faith. In the 1960’s, he and Charlene joined the Christian Family Movement, a program that supported sacramental preparation and community outreach to those in need. In the 1970s, Joe and Charlene opened their hearts as a host family for the Fresh Air Fund, where they welcomed a young boy into their home, offering him a two -week summer escape from city life in Harlem, NY. Those summers were filled with laughter, exploration, and fun-filled beach days.
Joe’s legacy extended beyond his immediate family. He was a devoted parishioner of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Seekonk, where he found solace, community, and spiritual guidance. His moral compass was unwavering, guided by Catholic principles and a deep sense of integrity.
But Joe was more than a man of faith; he was a man of action. His passion for long-distance running fueled his spirit. He conquered over 45 marathons, including an impressive 20 Boston Marathons. Each stride carried the weight of his love for family, and every finish line was a testament to his unwavering commitment.
Large family gatherings were Joe’s delight. Around the table, surrounded by loved ones, he would say grace and recite the Irish Blessing—a tradition that bound generations together. Joe’s home over the years - from Sweet Briar Ave. to Cypress Rd. to Brown Ave. - stood as a haven of love, laughter, and shared memories.
Today, as we bid farewell to Joe, we celebrate a life that transcends mere existence. His greatest accomplishment was not measured in miles run or business deals closed; it was etched in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Joe’s legacy lives on—a beacon of love, resilience, and the enduring bonds of family. Rest in peace, dear Joe. Your footsteps echo through generations, and your love will forever light our way.
Visiting hours will take place on Thursday, April 11, 2024, from 4:00 -7:00 PM at the Perry McStay Funeral Home, 2555 Pawtucket Ave, East Providence, RI. A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Friday, April 12, 2024 at 10:00 AM at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 984 Taunton Ave., Seekonk, MA followed by burial with military honors at Seekonk Newman Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Joe’s memory to the RI Veterans Home would be greatly appreciated. Donations can be made by contacting alysa.boyle@vets.ri.gov or mailed directly with checks payable to RI Veterans Home Activities Department (Joe Mullen noted in the memo line).
