Larry McDowell Mullins Obituary
Larry McDowell Mullins, 77, passed away on June 16, 2026.
A Celebration of Larry's Life will be held at the Hartland Clubhouse at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 25, 2026. Following the service, a Gathering of Family and Friends will be held at the Hartland Clubhouse until 7:00 p.m. Larry was born on June 11, 1949, in Hustonville, Kentucky, Larry lived a life defined by education, service, and dedication to his family, students, and community.
Larry graduated with honors from Berea College in 1971, earning a bachelor's degree in mathematics with a minor in German. He later graduated with honors from Eastern Kentucky University, where he earned a master's degree in mathematics and served as a graduate assistant. Continuing his lifelong pursuit of learning, he attended the University of Kentucky and completed additional doctoral-level coursework in mathematics.
Larry began his professional career with the Lincoln County Health Department as an environmentalist. Through hard work and leadership, he advanced to become Director of Family Planning for a six-county district and ultimately served as Director of the Lincoln County Health Department until 1991. During this time, he also shared his passion for mathematics by teaching part-time at Lyndsey Wilson College, Eastern Kentucky University, and LCC.
In 1991, Larry began a distinguished teaching career with the University of Kentucky and Bluegrass Community and Technical College, where he taught a wide range of mathematics courses. For nearly three decades, he inspired countless students through his dedication, patience, and love of learning. He retired in April 2020 after 29 years of service. Missing his students and colleagues, Larry returned to the classroom as a part-time instructor and continued teaching until May 2024.
Outside of his professional life, Larry was an avid reader of books and poetry, marathon runner, history enthusiast, and lover of classic Western films. Above all, he was a devoted father, loving husband, and a trusted friend and mentor to many.
Larry is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Trisha Mullins; his son, Joshua Simon; his daughter, Lauren Mullins; his sister, Sheila; his sister-in-law, Julie; his nephew, Michael; his nieces, Brandi, Brittany, and Milah; numerous great-nieces and great-nephews; and his cherished pets, Odie, Buffy, and Lexi.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Gary.
Larry's legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched as an educator, mentor, colleague, and friend. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
Care Cremation and Funeral Service is honored to be entrusted with final care.
There will be a gathering of family and friends held after the memorial service.
