Richard Mullins: Community service is his calling and he’s answered that call many times over

November 19 is recognized as International Men’s Day to “celebrate, worldwide, the positive value men bring to the world, their families, and communities.” In our November issue, Stockbridge Community News is featuring Men of the Hour—three men from our own little corner of the world who make a notable difference in our community.

by Dana Blaszkowski

Vocabulary.com defines unassuming as “…modest, lacking in arrogance, pleasant, or polite. You’ll find that some of the most unassuming people are actually the most interesting and powerful of all. They’re just decent enough not to display it all the time.”

“Unassuming” is the word that continually comes to mind in relation to Richard Mullins.

Stockbridge born and raised, Richard has deep commitment to our community. Although he lived in nearby Gregory for 23 years, he’s pure Stockbridge, through and through.

In Richard’s younger days, he coached local youth sports. That experience was one of his first opportunities to serve. He did it for the kids, to teach and get to know them, to listen to them and help them grow. He was the kind of coach that gave every player a chance.

For 17 years, Richard was a member of the Gregory Jaycees. The Jaycees Creed clearly resonated with Richard and helped pave the path for a lifetime legacy of giving. “…That earth’s great treasure lies in human personality; And that service to humanity is the best work of life.”

Richard currently serves as the Administrative Treasurer for the Stockbridge Lions Club. He accepted that position not because he loves the finance piece, but because he’s dedicated to the good the organization supports and facilitates. And, well, it needed to be done, and he has a heart of service. As a Lion, Richard can be counted on to step up and isn’t afraid to do the work. He recently helped install the new exercise equipment at Veterans Park and is continually available to help with all the ongoing projects that organization contributes to.

At Stream in the Desert Ministries, the Mullins’ faith home, Richard serves as deacon. He is a dedicated member of his church family, sharing the Good News in God’s image, actively learning, listening, praying and working together to reach out to their communities.

Richard is most proud of our Stockbridge Township and Village leadership for working together in an effort to support our citizens. He is encouraged by positive change and new businesses coming to our area. Richard is welcoming. He believes that anyone who makes Stockbridge their home is part owner here. Whether you are a new resident or a deeply rooted multigenerational family, you have a say—just as much as anyone else.

Although he thoroughly enjoys being a football spectator, both College and NFL, you won’t find Richard armchair quarterbacking. In life, Richard steps up and doesn’t mind rolling up his sleeves to do the work. This is clearly evidenced by his level of commitment to our local government. He serves as a trustee on the Village of Stockbridge Council and chairs the Ordinance Committee. Richard serves on the Stockbridge Township Board of Review, as well.

While local government work certainly fills his calendar with meetings, he doesn’t limit himself to boardroom tables, that’s for sure.

Richard likes to build things. He made flower boxes at the Stockbridge Area Senior Center this spring and recently completed a beautiful porch at home, too. He enjoys mowing six lawns around town, driving his tractor from house to house. And, he’s an avid golfer. Clearly he doesn’t sit still too often.

Ask Richard about his family, and that’s when you’ll really see his eyes light up. He has been married to Kathleen for 42 years. He describes her as his best friend, the sweetest person around. He states, unabashedly, that they are dedicated to each other and the Lord. They love and clearly enjoy being with their daughter, son and extended families too. They have a grandson and granddaughter who they adore, and they are fortunate enough to have them all close in their lives.

When Kathleen describes Richard, she sums him up well, with a range of attributes. She says, “He’s the jokester in the corner, God-loving, Hallmark-movie-watching, crying-over-commercials, wonderful, fun-loving guy, and he’s mine.”

Richard declares community service is his calling. It’s certain that is true. He genuinely likes it and says it helps him, since he can’t sit still. He enjoys meeting new friends through volunteerism. He believes there are a lot of great people in our town and everywhere else.

Richard says he’s nothing special, that he fails like we all do. I say he’s unassuming—and actually quite special.

Ask Richard Mullins about his family, and that’s when you’ll really see his eyes light up. Richard is pictured with his wife of 42 years, Kathleen. Photo provided by Richard Mullins

Richard Mullins (foreground), a regular volunteer at the Stockbridge Area Senior Center, is busy cooking sausage and flipping pancakes at the Center. Photo provided by Dana Blaszkowski

At a recent fundraiser held at Culver’s in Jackson, Richard Mullins (left) volunteers as a server with other SASC members. Photo provided by Dana Blaszkowski