Mr. Orville Edsel Mullins' Obituary
Orville Edsel Mullins, 87, of Alexander City, Alabama passed away peacefully on September 14, 2025, in Huntsville, Alabama. He was born on November 13, 1937, in Equality, Alabama, to the late Orville Orlandis Mullins and Maggie Guynell (Bailey) Mullins. The road he traveled was one of simplicity, hard work, and dedication to the Lord and his family.
He grew up in Alexander City, Alabama, and attended Benjamin Russell High School, where he excelled at varsity track and basketball. Edsel was voted Senior class president, and also the most courteous student of his 1956 graduating class. After finishing high school, he attended Gadsden School of Trades where he earned degrees in the electrical profession. He went on to work at Russell Hospital as Facilities and Building Maintenance Superintendent for 35 years. It was there that he developed a reputation in the community for his superb technical skills and ability to fix practically anything.
Edsel’s hobbies included working in his yard, building and crafting in his woodworking shop, and watching Alabama football. He loved to travel and was fortunate to see most of the United States. He especially enjoyed camping and hiking in many of our national parks. He was happiest when immersed in the outdoors and always had a deep appreciation for God’s green earth. He was a member of Alexander City Methodist Church where he held various positions on the Board of Stewards and took an active role in assisting with different church building expansion projects.
He had an unwavering commitment to God and to his family. He was a loving, devoted husband, son, father, and grandfather. His life was characterized by a strong work ethic, integrity, and thoughtfulness towards others, earning him the respect of family, neighbors, and colleagues. He was a man of his word and one who would insist, “If you can’t say something good about someone, don’t say anything at all.” He will be remembered as a gentleman in every sense of the word.
Edsel is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Maylon Love Mullins; son, Jonathan Mullins (Angela) of Alexander City, Alabama; daughter, Sabrina Gross (Gary) of Huntsville, Alabama; grandchildren, Bradley Mullins (Shannon), Megan Mullins Abad (Diego), Michael Gross, and Dr. Evan Gross. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A graveside service to celebrate his life will be held at Hillview Memorial Park on Saturday, September 20th at 11:00 a.m. Rev. Wayne Cowhick will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Lewy Body Dementia Association at www.lbda.org or to any church of your choice.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Orville Edsel Mullins.
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