William Patton Mullins, also known as Bill, Billy, Moon, Dad and Papa of Wells, Maine passed away peacefully on May 14,2021 with his family by his side.
Bill entered this life on September 29, 1953 as a force to be reckoned with for his parents, Rosemary (Rudenaur) and Virgil Mullins.
Bill spent his youth in the Prospect Hill area of Waltham MA. His childhood would be the source of many great stories and the foundation of many friendships in his life.
Bill joined the Navy, answering the call of the ocean which was one of the great loves of his life. After serving honorably he returned to Massachusetts and his friends and family. Bill worked as a mover at McLean’s Hospital and eventually fulfilled one of his dreams of living by the ocean and purchased a home in Wells, a place that became a source of many memories over the years.
In 1987 Bill met his soulmate MaryBeth Minihane Mullins and after a relentless pursuit that even involved a turtle hunt, he won her over and began a courtship that culminated in their marriage on July 30, 1988, the hottest day of the year in a non-air-conditioned church in Chestnut Hill, MA.
Bill and MaryBeth settled in Brighton and soon became infamous for their parties that Bill so enjoyed as a chance to show off his culinary skills. Bill’s favorite thing about living on the Boston Marathon route was a chance to host a party every year that sometimes lasted longer than the Marathon itself, with plenty of food, drinks and many, many laughs.
Eventually the call of the ocean became too strong and Bill and MaryBeth left the city behind. They moved to Wells full time with their 3 children to give them a childhood of open space and fresh air all while instilling the same love of the seashore. Once again, their home became a place where family and friends were always welcome and many more happy times were celebrated. Bill and MaryBeth would often tell their children they didn’t need to go on vacation since they lived in "vacationland" much to Shauna, Connor and Liam's chagrin.
Bill spent many a weekend sitting on his deck wearing his favorite tie dye shirt from his vast collection, while manning the grill with his favorite drink in his hand, a warm pint of Bacardi and a cold coke. He was often found watching his beloved Red Sox and Patriots during their respective seasons, cheering them on or being very vocal in his displeasure when they were losing. Most of Wells could hear him when he disagreed with a bad call!!!
Bill had many health struggles over the past few years but he always maintained a sense of humor and optimism knowing that MaryBeth took her vows of "in sickness and in health" seriously. Many mornings he could be found sitting at the seawall, sipping his coffee and letting the peace he found by the ocean soothe his soul, all while searching for seals. We are sure he is now sitting on the heavenly shores sipping a drink and watching over all his loved ones,
Bill leaves behind the love of his life, MaryBeth, as well as his children that were his pride and joy. Jacquelyn Rose (Brandon) Williams of Cape Neddick, Shauna O'Neill Mullins, Connor Patton Mullins and Liam Patrick Mullins all of Wells. He was especially proud to be called Papa by his grandchildren Isabella (Izzy), Maverick and Zoey Williams. He also leaves behind his sister Brenda Rezaie of California and 3 nephews, Ryan, Jason & Brandon and his sisters Annette Mullins & Felicia Olmstead both of New Hampshire. Bill will also be missed by MaryBeth's brother Neil and sisters, Nancy, Lauren & Michele, who all loved him like a brother, as well as his father-in-law Denis Minihane who considered him a son. He also leaves behind his former wife and lifelong friend Kathryn Mullins Cincotta.
Bill had a large group of friends whom he thought of as family, that are also feeling his loss but will remember his smile, humor and willingness to be there to lend a hand or an ear when either was needed.
Bill was predeceased by his parents Rosemary and Virgil and his brother Bobby as well as his mother-in-law Janet Minihane, who we are sure greeted him with a glass of Crown Royal before they settled in for one of their long talks.
Bill left a hole in many people’s hearts and lives that will never be filled, but we know he is at peace and out of pain flying high in his tie dye watching over us the same way he did on earth.
Fly high Bill, we love you.
A Celebration of Bill’s life will be held this Summer and all will be notified.