John Stephen “Steve” Mullen, 68, of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on Aug. 21, 2026, in Houston, Texas surrounded by loved ones. He was born on July 22, 1958, in Bryan, Texas.
Steve was a faithful servant to the Lord and a man who lived his life with honor, principle, and strong values. He was a sincere, caring, kindhearted and sentimental man who loved his family and friends deeply. Steve had a special way of looking out for those around him, always willing to stand up for the underdog and protect those he loved.
Steve was someone his family and friends could count on. He was a man of integrity who believed in doing what was right. His quiet strength, compassion, and genuine concern for others left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Professionally, Steve loved his work at Western Geophysical and took great pride in what he did. Outside of work, he had many interests that reflected his curious mind and unique personality. A true history buff, he especially looked forward to attending the annual Civil War Seminar in Hillsboro, Texas with his dad. He loved to read and could often be found browsing magazines and spending time at Barnes & Noble every Friday night until the closing of the store.
Steve had a quick wit and a wonderful sense of humor. He enjoyed making people laugh and had a personality that could bring a smile to those around him. His interests were as varied as his personality. He loved science fiction, Bigfoot, UFOs, dinosaurs, and keeping up with Fox News. He also had a great appreciation for his guns.
Family was at the heart of Steve’s life. He cherished family vacations to Colorado and the memories made along the way. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing basketball, an interest that brought him many good times and lasting memories.
Steve leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty, laughter, and kindness. He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife of 24 years, Stacy DeMaria; his brother, Joe Norman Mullen Jr.; his sister, Mary Melendrez and husband, Jesus; his nephews, Noah and Eli Melendrez; Ryan Hoffart and wife Kendal, and Preston Hoffart; his sister-in-law, Dana Hoffart and husband Stephen and his grandnephew, Easton Hoffart.
Steve also leaves behind his beloved fur babies, Alley and Gator Tator Tot, who brought him great companionship and joy.
Family was at the heart of Steve’s life. He cherished family vacations to Colorado and the memories made along the way. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing basketball, an interest that brought him many good times and lasting memories.
He is also survived by loving cousins and in-laws and a host of friends who will forever cherish the memories they shared with him.
Steve’s life was defined not only by the things he enjoyed, but by the kind of man he was—faithful, protective, sincere, funny, compassionate, and true to his principles. His presence will be deeply missed, but the memories of his laughter, his kindness, and the love he gave to his family and friends will remain forever.
In lieu of flowers and in honor of his love of books, donations may be made to the Austin Memorial Library (220 S. Bonham Ave., Cleveland, TX 77327; 281-592-3920) “in memory of John Stephen Mullen.”
A visitation for John Stephen “Steve” Mullen will be held at Neal Funeral Home in Cleveland, Texas, on Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m. A Celebration of Life will be held at Neal Funeral Home on Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2026, at 2:00 PM. His interment will follow at Cleveland Memorial Cemetery in Cleveland, Texas
All arrangements to be handled under the trusted care of Neal Funeral Home.