Obituary of Patricia B. Mullins

On Saturday, January 16, 2021, our precious Patricia B. “Pat” Mullins was welcomed into the Loving Arms of her Heavenly Father, where her peaceful spirit rests, bathed in the Light of her Lord.  Legions of loved ones rejoiced in her arrival and enveloped her with warmth and love…comforting images of a celestial celebration of her beautiful, exemplary life.  No one was ever so deserving of the passage, “Well done, my good and faithful servant”.

Patricia Ann Buckner was born in Columbia, S.C. on August 27, 1949, the third and middle child of Alonzo and Mary Grassilli Buckner.  She spent her early childhood in southern France, offering special memories always held dear.  Cherished too, was her Italian heritage, a source of great delight and pride throughout her life.  She grew up in Columbia across from the USC Practice Field, rendering her a life-long Gamecock fan. Pat graduated from University High School in 1967.  She created an exceptional career in banking, with Bankers’ Trust, NCNB, and Bank of America.  Through unparalleled work ethic and brilliance, she ultimately achieved the position of Vice President with Bank of America.  She retired in 2005 to pursue her dream of seeing the world with the love of her life, husband and best friend, Barry.  Many have reveled in her enthusiastic stories of travels far and wide, experiencing life through Pat’s vision, ever appreciative and awe-struck by the beauty of God’s creation.    

In spite of her remarkable career and experiences, Pat’s true accomplishments and dreams were realized in serving her Lord, and in the depth of her love and devotion to family and friends.  Her greatest joy was being a wife, mom, “Nana”, and “Nanny” to Barry, her five children, and eleven grandchildren.  Pat’s life was spent sharing selfless and endless acts of kindness—for family, friends, and strangers alike.  She blessed the world with her hard work, commitment, and nurturing, giving spirit--a genuine, faithful servant of God. Faith was her driving force—she was the truest reflection of God, radiated through all of her deeds.  She and Barry proudly carried the banner of their beloved church, Chapin United Methodist, on innumerable mission trips, Salkehatchie, and GOoD Works.  Her contributions and gifts are immeasurable...

Pat’s indelible legacy will remain the strongest and most enduring thread in the life tapestries of those she so deeply touched—her precious family:  Barry, her husband of forty-one years and absolute soul-mate; Children, Tina Ballentine, Shannon (Gris) McDonald, Kelly (David) Oswald, Joe (Anne) Palmer, Megan (Dallas) Tucker; Grandchildren: Killian, Fallon, Wells, Cullen, Jonah,  Jaide, Tiffany, Tatum, Cameron, Brooks, Libby;  Brother, John (Gail) Buckner; Sister-in-law, April (Jerry) Smith; Brother-in-laws, Jim (Patty) Mullins and Jerry (Susan) Mullins; and countless nieces and nephews, related or not, who thoroughly adored their “Aunt Pat”.  She loved and honored every soul in her life, rejoicing in accomplishments and embracing in hardships. Pat’s innate ability to make each and every person feel special and loved was truly her hallmark—how blessed were we, who shared her path on this beautiful journey.

Those to welcome Pat into her spiritual home were her parents, Alonzo and Mary Buckner; siblings—Danny Buckner, Lilly Shealy, Joanne Seay; and a host of family and friends, each of whom held a rare and special place in her heart…and she in theirs.

As we all strive to honor Pat’s memory, the embodiment of Christ’s passion and grace, remember that her beautiful spirit is embedded in the fabric of our lives.  She is always with us, the foundation of pure goodness on which to build and carry forth.  Her influence is limitless, her legacy forever.

Due to current Covid restrictions, a Celebration of Life for family and close friends will be planned at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Chapin United Methodist Church, ACTS Missions. 

          

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