Paul John McMullen

September 11, 2020

Paul John McMullen, 61, of Woodbridge, VA, died peacefully on Friday, September 11, 2020 at home after a heroic battle with cancer. Paul is survived by his wife, Ethel M. McMullen, stepchildren Vicky L. Miller of Gratz, PA and Captain Clarence J. K. Miller, USMC, Camp Pendleton, CA and granddaughter Emalie C. Brown of Gratz, PA. He is also survived by his sister Lenore Levin of Great Falls, VA, stepbrothers Mark Libratore of Stuart, FL and Ronald Libratore of West Suffield, CT and stepsister Brenda Gallagher of East Granby, CT. He was preceded in death by his parents Captain Cornelius E. McMullen, USN (Ret.) and Lenore C. (Crowley), stepmother Jewel F. (McAllister) and siblings Neil McMullen and Carol Swan. Paul was born January 8, 1959, in Newport, RI. As the son of a naval officer, he lived in numerous states while growing up and graduated from Ledyard High School, Ledyard CT. He met Ethel at a wedding in 2001 and they married in 2002. After graduating from the Florida Institute of Technology, in 1982, he enlisted as a Quartermaster into the US Navy. Paul served onboard the USS Briscoe (DD-977) through 1987, and in the naval reserves through 1992. In 1988 he was hired by the Defense Mapping Agency in the maritime safety field contributing to the safety of the navigation mission as a Notice to Mariners and publication writer/editor, and watch officer on the World-Wide Navigational Warning Service (WWNWS). Paul retired from the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency in May, 2018, after 35 years of government service. Every once in a while, God sends us someone who reaches out and reminds us of life’s purpose. That was Paul. He always felt a special responsibility toward his family and friends keeping watch over them throughout his life. Who among us has not been touched by his kindness, humor, thoughtfulness, and love? He will be missed. A memorial service is scheduled for Monday, September 28 at 11:00 am at Miller Funeral Home, Woodbridge, VA, with a reception to follow at the McMullen residence. Family and friends are welcome to attend and celebrate Paul’s life. Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In 2012, we saw the beauty of God’s presence among the majestic snowcapped peaks and tranquil wildflower meadows of Mount Rainier NP. Donations in his honor may be made to Washington’s National Park Fund, 1904 3rd Avenue, #400, Seattle, WA 98101. https://wnpf.org/park-partners/ The family extends their gratitude and appreciation to the caregivers for their tender support and gentle, compassionate care.