Obituary of Samuel Franklin Mullins

Samuel Franklin Mullins was born on June 3, 1937 in Pikeville, Kentucky. He was one of twelve children born to James and Barbara (Huffman) Mullins. As a teen, Sam and his family settled in Michigan. He proudly served his country in the Michigan Army National Guard.

On October 31, 1959, Sam wed the love of his life, the former Dorothy Marie Santogrossi at Church of the Master in Detroit, Michigan. The couple were blessed with five children. Sam provided for his family with his employment as an assembler at General Motors for thirty years.

A talented handyman, Sam could tackle the most challenging home remodeling projects. He also took an interest in woodworking in his retirement. For many years, the Mullins family resided on a four-acre property where Sam cultivated a large garden each year. He was never afraid to experiment with growing a new crop. Sam had a deep appreciation for the great outdoors and ventured out anytime he could. He frequently hiked through the forest with his children or grandchildren in tow. His vast knowledge of the natural world made Sam a wonderful Boy Scout leader when his kids were young. He was also proud to have assisted others at Alcoholics Anonymous meetings.

Sam and his wife often traveled south to Kentucky and Tennessee to visit family members. A southern gentleman at heart, he was very friendly. Sam never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone. He enjoyed relaxing with a good mystery or science fiction novel or working on a crossword puzzle.

Samuel Franklin Mullins, age 85, of Monroe, Michigan passed away peacefully on Tuesday; April 18, 2023. His passing was preceded by his parents; his beloved wife of fifty-four years: Dorothy Mullins in 2013; and three brothers: Rodney Mullins, Jack Mullins, and Jim Mullins.

To cherish his memory, he leaves his five children: Samuel Franklin Mullins Jr., Randall Marc (Lisa) Mullins, Gregory Allan Mullins, Pamela Ann (Christopher) Donato, and Douglas Paul (Emilie) Mullins; seventeen grandchildren: Samuel Franklin Mullins III, Nicholas Mullins, Justin Mullins, Colleen Mullins, Aaron Mullins, Kristie Mullins, Adam Mullins, Natalie Mullins, Joslyn Mullins, Christopher Donato III, Kyle Donato, Eric Donato, Madeline Mullins, Cassidy Mullins, Andrew Mullins, Jason Mullins, and Nathan Mullins; many great grandchildren; three sisters: Connie (Tom) Tekelie, Jeannie Bartus, and Cathy Martin; and five brothers: Ernie (Linda) Mullins, Bill (Caroline) Mullins, Bob (Nancy) Mullins, Fred (Chris) Mullins, and Clyde (Jerri) Mullins.

Friends may gather on Sunday; April 30, 2023 from 2:00pm until 6:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185. A Celebration Sam’s Life will be held at 6:00pm also at Merkle’s. Cremation has taken place through the on-site crematory, Covenant Cremation of Erie, Michigan.

Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.