Paul Edward Mullen

Paul Edward Mullen of West Wareham passed away on July 26, 2018, at the age 76 after a valiant fight with acute leukemia. Paul was born in Needham and graduated from Needham High School in 1960. In high school he enjoyed playing football and baseball. Upon graduation, he attended Boston College getting both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in English. He received a Bachelor of Arts graduating Cum Laude and his Master's degree was in 17th Century English. He was often making poignant references to literature.

Paul’s career focused as a high school English teacher in Westboro for over 30 years.  He was famously known for teaching Streetcar Named Desire by dramatically yelling “Stella” with all the passion the role deserved. He was a motivating teacher often bringing his engaging humor to get students to love learning, and literature, as much as he did.

Once he retired to the Cape, he stayed active walking and riding his bike along the canal. He often could be found with Mary enjoying fishing in his rowboat. He always got excited with catching and releasing a Largemouth Bass!

One thing everyone knows about Paul is the love he had for Irish music, especially The Clancy Brothers. A few favorites included Danny Boy, Wild Rover, and Nancy Whiskey! He thoroughly enjoyed his visit to Ireland with his daughter in 1988 to trace his Irish heritage.

Paul had many sayings and stories to share as advice, guidance, and support. He loved to read and often would gently bring in Wabi Sabi, metaphysics, and philosophy.  We hope all who loved and cared for Paul will bring forward into their lives Paul’s beliefs to live life simply and with gratitude. He was a man who thought deeply, loved fully, and was generous with all.

Paul was husband of the late Elaine Mullen, who passed away in February of 1982. He is survived by Mary Ford, his partner of 23 years and her two sons John and Joe, his daughter Marianne Mullen and her husband Danner Friend, brother Peter Mullen and his wife Mary Lou Mullen, granddaughters Madelyn and Charlotte Friend, niece Tracy Winslow and nephews Peter Hart Mullen and Brendan Mullen.  Visiting hours will be held in the Eaton Funeral Home, 1351 Highland Ave, Needham, on Tuesday, July 31st from 5-7 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in St. Joseph Church, 1362 Highland Ave, Needham, on Wednesday August 1st at 10 am. Interment to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, West Roxbury. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Paul’s name to Wareham Free Library or The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

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