Joe R. Mullins

Joe Russell Mullins, 84, of Ashland, passed away Tuesday, September 8, 2020 at Kings Daughters Medical Center in Ashland. Joe was born August 23, 1936 in Floyd County, a son of the late Oak and Lena Crawford Mullins. In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his brother Charles Mullins and his sister Charlotte Mullins.
Survivors include his loving wife of 57 years Emma VanHoose Mullins of Ashland, daughter Susan Thompson and husband Phil of Ashland, grandchildren Rusty (LaNae) Thompson, Kayla (Casey) Fletcher, great grandchildren Haiden Thompson, Adelita Vanover, Oakley Thompson and a host of extended family and good friends.
Joe graduated from Wayland High School in Floyd County, KY. After graduation he took a job in the Elkhorn Mine at Wayland for a short time. In 1958 he joined the Marines and was stationed in Washington, DC. Four months out of boot camp, he was selected for the prestigious Marine Honor Guard, serving as security for the White House, Camp David and all State Affairs until 1961. He returned home and joined the Kentucky State Police graduating in 1962 from the Academy as a trooper serving the people of Boyd County and serving as a driver for the Governor at his request. In 1964 he applied for and was appointed deputy marshal for the Eastern District. During his 28 years as deputy, he was given many special assignments by the US Department of Justice. He saw many foreign dignitaries and made friends with several Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Begin. But his greatest career achievement was his appointment as United States Marshal on February 14, 1994, after being confirmed by President Clinton and by a unanimous vote of the United States Senate. This position held many responsibilities and duties all of the United States.
Joe came from a family of lawmen. His father, uncle and a cousin were policemen at Wayland, and another cousin at Prestonsburg with over 80 years combined service in law enforcement.
Funeral services will be held 12:30pm Friday, September 11, 2020 at the Steen Funeral Home 13th St. Chapel. Burial will be in the Kentucky Veterans Cemetery North East with military honors provided by the Marine Corps Honor League.
Visitation will be held from 11:00am till service time at the funeral home.
COVID-19 restrictions are still in effect, please practice social distancing and wear a mask.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Joe’s Honor may be made to a favorite charity of choice.
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