Joseph Alfred Mullen, 91, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2026, surrounded by the family he loved so dearly.

A man of deep faith, tireless service, and country, Joe proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean War. A proud alumnus of the "Essex Aggie," he dedicated his life’s work to the welfare of animals, applying his expert knowledge of farming throughout a distinguished 45-year career at the MSPCA at Nevins Farm. As the longtime Operations Manager, Joe was a pillar of the Methuen community, managing the land and its creatures with unmatched skill and heart.

Joe was a gifted craftsman and woodworker who found great joy in his workshop. He skillfully built his own family home and spent countless hours under the sign of "Grampy’s Workshop," creating beautiful heirloom projects that remain lasting treasures for his family.

His faith was his anchor. A devoted member of Marsh Corner Community Church in Methuen, he lived with the humble assurance of God’s grace. Joe was known by many cherished titles—Dad, Pop, Gee, Grampy, and by his extended church family, Papa Joe.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 45 years, Betty. He leaves behind a rich legacy through his children, Donna Jackson and her husband Glen, and David Mullen and his wife Carole. He was the cherished grandfather of Brian Jackson and his wife Audrey, Jessica Stucker and her husband Joe, Kendra Perkins and her husband Tyson, and Hannah Mullen. He also leaves his four great-grandchildren, Harrison, Lincoln, Milo, and Caleb.

A Celebration of Joe’s Life will be held on Friday, May 8, at 10 am, at Marsh Corner Community Church in Methuen. All are welcome to join us in celebrating Joe’s life. A Mercy meal will be held following the service to allow fellowship and share fond memories.

In a beautiful tribute to his life's work, Joe and Betty will be interred together at Hillside Acre Animal Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Hillside Acre Animal Cemetery at the MSPCA at Nevins Farm.

Memorial Donations:

• Online: https://www.mspca.org/programs-resources/hillside-acre-animal-cemetery-at-nevins-farm/
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• By Mail: Hillside Acre Animal Cemetery, 400 Broadway, Methuen, MA 01844.

Joe’s life was anchored in his unwavering trust in the Lord, held fast by the words of Ephesians 2:8 (NIV): “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”