Stephen Lee "Steve" Mullins, 68, of St. Albans, passed away Friday, September 20, 2013, surrounded by his family at home, following a short illness.

He was born in Milton to Inez Josephine Harshbarger Mullins and Froud Franklin Mullins. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sister, Sandra Sue Mullins Bias and his beloved grandson, Garrett Stephen (Gare-Bear) Belote.

Steve is survived by his wife of 48 years, Donna Jean McCallister Mullins; son, Mark Stephen Mullins of St. Albans; daughter, Lori Lynn Belote of St. Albans; and grandchildren, Cody Belote and Cassidy Belote of St. Albans and Allison Kaylee Mullins of Scott Depot, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Steve was a retired school teacher from Kanawha County Schools with over 23 years of service. He loved his job and was a caring teacher for his students and their families. He was well loved and respected by his colleagues and associates.

Steve graduated from Milton High School in 1963 and was looking forward to his upcoming 50 year reunion. He played football and wrestled and won thespian awards. He graduated from Marshall University in 1973 and received a Master's degree in Special Education from WV College of Graduate Studies in 1992. He was a member of Kappa Delta Pi, an education honorary at Marshall.

Steve joined the Naval Reserve in 1962 while in high school and served his country honorably for 8 years active duty in the submarine service and 19 years as a reservist. He retired in 1989 as a Chief Petty Officer.

Steve was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather, and was involved in little league sports, scouting and other activities. He loved life and had numerous talents. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and shooting sports. He also enjoyed cooking and helping Donna in the kitchen.

The one crowning achievement that Steve placed the most value in was his obedience to the gospel of Jesus Christ and being added to the Church of Christ in Spring Hill, where he attended faithfully over the years and took part in song leading, teaching and leading prayer. He strived to put away the selfish ways of man and to follow the pattern set by his savior and to have the heart of a servant. Steve looked forward to sharing Christ's victory over death, hell and the grave and re-joining the whole family in heaven.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., Tuesday, September 24, at Keller Funeral Home, with Minister Raymond Steiner officiating. Burial will follow in Cunningham Memorial Park, St. Albans.

Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m., Monday, September 23, at Keller Funeral Home, Dunbar.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude's Childrens Hospital, Make-A-Wish Foundation or the Ronald McDonald House.