John C. Mullins was a beloved teacher and coach whose belief in education and devotion to his students set an example for many young lives. Mullins began teaching at Emmalena elementary the year it opened and remained there until his death.  He spent many years as a basketball coach, worked with the Carr Creek Head Start Program several summers, and was an active member of the Lions Club.

The son of Carlie and Sarah Fields Mullins, John C. was born at Amburgey, Ky., and lived there his entire life.  He grew up in a large family (five brothers and five sisters), and at an early age learned to help with chores like working in hillside cornfields and filling the wood box.  He never outgrew his love for nature; as an
adult one of his favorite pastimes was to pack a picnic lunch and spend the day in the mountains, with his family.

Education was important to Mullins from childhood.  He attended Upper Trace Fork grade school and Carr Creek High School; he walked two miles each morning to catch the bus to Carr Creek. After graduating from Carr Creek in 1956, Mullins continued his education at Lees Junior College in Jackson and Eastern Kentucky University. He played basketball in both high school and college.

John C.'s first teaching job was at Patton Fork.  to reach the school, he had to walk across a mountain; he stayed with students during the week and went home on weekends.  He taught at Big Smith Branch School at Smithsboro, then took a position at Emmalena when that school opened, John C. was set to retire in June 1989, but he and his wife were killed in an automobile accident that May.

John married Lillie Mae Whitaker in 1960.  The couple had three sons, Doyle, Alan and Stacy.  Mullins was a loving father who taught his children well.

His sister Beulah Ashley sumps up the way he is remembered: " He Never had a lot of material things, but he had what counted most--a heart full of love for his family, friends and students. He was always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need.   He was a wonderful son, brother, husband, father and neighbor."

 
Corbett Mullins
April 2003