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Brian Winslow Mullinix, a native of Albemarle, NC, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2023, in Wilmington, NC. He was 94 years old.

Brian led a remarkable life. After graduating from high school, he joined the U.S. Air Force and served his country for 20 years, retiring as a Senior Master Sergeant (SMSgt). As part of the Strategic Air Command (SAC) and Bomb Navigation Squadron, Brian toured Guam and various other places. During the Cold War, he did test runs in B-52s from Albany to the border of Russia and would refuel and rest in England. While stationed in Taiwan, his son David was born. After retiring from the military, Brian worked at General Electric (GE) as a Test Technician and built reactors.

Brian had many interests. He was an avid fisherman, a master gardener, and volunteered his abilities at the Arboretum in Wilmington. He was also a part of Turtle Watch for many years and would walk the beach, keeping watch over the turtle nests overnight. Brian was also a dedicated Tarheel fan and enjoyed watching their games.

Brian was preceded in death by his father Selby Mullinix, mother Sally Mullinix, son David Brian Mullinix, and sister Jane Phillips.

He is survived by his son Jay Mullinix of Rocky Point, NC, daughter Nancy Mullinix of Wrightsville Beach, NC, sister Ann Matthews, former spouse of 40 years Marjorie Mullinix Johnson, four grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

Brian will be remembered as a loving father, brother, grandfather, and great-grandfather who lived a full and adventurous life. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Graveside Service will be held for Brian’s inurnment at the Mullinix Family Plot at Stoney Hill Methodist Church Cemetery at a later date.

Please share memories and condolences for Brian’s family by signing the Tribute Wall below.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation 1535 S. 41st Street Wilmington, NC 28403 910.791.9099

Tribute Wall

Please feel free to sign the guestbook or share a memory

June 11, 2023

Suzanne Thatcher says:

Dear Brian’s Family, it was my privilege in the 1990’s to work with Brian on the Plant Hot Line at the Arboretum. He was the best mentor and shared his knowledge enthusiastically with those of us training and the public we served. I have missed seeing him and am happy he lived such a full life. We are all better for it.
June 11, 2023

Don Loftin says:

I met Brian only once, when he was home on leave, at his family home on Wolcott Avenue. 2-doors next to my home. (I was about 12 yrs old) I remember that his family was very proud of Brian, including his sisters, Jane and Ann, who I played with and attended school with as a child. I would appreciate it if someone could advise me how to reach his sister Ann, as we maintained occasional contact throughout the years, but lost contact about 2 years ago. Feel free to call me (910-686-9342) or email (donloftin@comspeco.net)
June 10, 2023

Maureen Hawkins says:

Thank you for your service.You were a great man. Sorry for your loss Jay and Nancy 🙏🏻
June 07, 2023

gwendolyn johnsen says:

I loved Brian. He was a dear friend of my mom's. They gardened together and dined out often. He was a part of our family. A very dear person.
June 07, 2023

Danyce Dicks says:

So sorry to learn of the passing of Brian. He was truly a dedicated and loyal master gardener for so many years. I miss his wonderful sense of humor. He was a treasure. Sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family.