McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory

McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory is family owned and operated, where we offer many different services to fit the needs of families.

Roger Pettitt
03/30/2026

Roger Pettitt

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Ralph FreedRalph Tyrell Freed, age 90, of Columbus, Georgia, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2026. He was born April...
03/30/2026

Ralph Freed

Ralph Tyrell Freed, age 90, of Columbus, Georgia, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2026. He was born April 29, 1935, in Abbottstown, Pennsylvania, to the late Ralph Paul Freed and Carolyn Amelia Stambaugh Freed.

Ralph proudly served his country as a Corporal in the United States Army with the 32nd Infantry Regiment during the Korean War from 1954 to 1955. His service reflected the dedication and strength that would define his life.

Ralph was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Frances “Frankie” Freed, who passed away on July 12, 2014, and his daughter, Frances Carolyn “Missy” Freed, who passed away on May 5, 2016. Despite these losses, Ralph remained a devoted family man who cherished every moment spent with those he loved.

He is survived by his daughter, Dr. Cindy Maree Freed; his son, Tyrell Ward Freed; his granddaughter, Melissa Freed; his great-granddaughter, Maddie Williams; his brother, Sam Freed of Woodstock, New York; and his sister, Carole Miller of Virginia. His family was his greatest pride and joy.

Throughout his career, Ralph worked as a sports promoter alongside his father-in-law at Fred Ward Promotions. He later built a successful career in real estate and owned and operated his own contracting company, Approximate Construction. Ralph was known for his strong work ethic, determination, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

Ralph enjoyed playing golf, spending time with his beloved dog, and working on various projects. He was humorous, witty, generous, and kind, always ready with a joke or a helping hand. Above all, Ralph was a devoted family man whose love and presence meant everything to those closest to him.

Ralph Tyrell Freed will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his warmth, humor, and the lasting impact he made on his family and friends.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Paws Humane Society in honor of Ralph’s love for animals.

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Edwin Howell
03/30/2026

Edwin Howell

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Mary Holmes
03/28/2026

Mary Holmes

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Craig D Stephens, II
03/28/2026

Craig D Stephens, II

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Donald E. Russell Jr.Donald Edward Russell Jr., 83, passed away on March 27, 2026, from natural causes.Don was born on O...
03/27/2026

Donald E. Russell Jr.

Donald Edward Russell Jr., 83, passed away on March 27, 2026, from natural causes.

Don was born on October 14, 1942, in Marion, Ohio. He attended The Ohio State University before enlisting in the United States Army. While serving as an Honor Guard at Fort McPherson, Georgia, he met Patti, who was volunteering with the USO. Don and Patti dated for four years before marrying on July 4, 1964.

Don’s military service took him around the world. While stationed in Heidelberg, Germany, Don and Patti welcomed their sons, Tommy and Gary. During Don’s second tour in Vietnam, their third son, Donny, was born. The military eventually brought Don and Patti to Columbus when he was transferred to Fort Benning. Don chose to continue his service there and ultimately retired in Columbus, where he was able to provide lasting stability for his family.

Following his retirement as a Master Sergeant from the U.S. Army, Don began a second career with AFLAC. He took great pride in his work and later retired from AFLAC as well.

Don was a devoted son, husband, father, grandfather, and friend. An avid golfer, he had a deep passion for the game—one he passed on to his youngest son, Donny. He enjoyed playing in tournaments, including several PGA Pro-Ams, and had the opportunity to play courses around the world, including Pebble Beach and Sawgrass. Beyond playing, Don loved spending time at the clubhouse and working in the golf shop, where he enjoyed helping others with their game.

Above all, Don cherished his family. His love was steady, generous, and far-reaching. He devoted himself to his wife, his sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, always making time to be present in their lives. His love extended to his nieces, whom he cherished as his own, and to their families as well. Don held a special place in his heart for his granddaughters, Caroline and Dylann and took great joy in supporting them—whether on the sidelines, in the stands, at recitals listening to Caroline sing, or simply by their side—offering encouragement every step of the way with the love only a Poppop could give. He treasured family time and found happiness in even the simplest moments, including giving wheelchair rides to his great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald Edward Russell and Helen Louise Russell; his brother, Charles Allen Russell (Sharon); and his sister, Patricia Ellen Lust (Dave).

He is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia Ann Russell; his sons, William (Tommy) Thomas Russell (Sherry), Gary Michael Russell (Tonia), and Donald Edward Russell III; his sister, Phyllis Russell; his grandchildren, Corey Neal Cummings (Kendall), Kyle Stewart Cummings, Caroline LeeAnn Russell Fuller (Andrew), and Dylann Paige Russell; and his great-grandchildren, Caiden Kyle Cummings, Kinsley Brooke Cummings, Lorelai Lynn Fuller, Phobe Jean Cummings, Palmer Alice Cummings, and Ronan Larry Gunn Fuller.

To honor Don’s life, the family suggests memorial donations to Wake for Warriors in lieu of flowers. Donations may be mailed to 697 Lee Road 339, Salem, AL 36874, or made online at www.wakeforwarriors.org/donate.

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Robert "Bobby" Perry WilkersonRobert “Bobby” Perry Wilkerson, age 92, of Columbus, GA beloved husband, father, grandfath...
03/27/2026

Robert "Bobby" Perry Wilkerson

Robert “Bobby” Perry Wilkerson, age 92, of Columbus, GA beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather died Wednesday, March 25, 2026.

Bobby was born June 11, 1933 in Albany GA to the late Henry Leroy Wilkerson, Sr. and Melba Eugenia Thorpe. As a child, his family moved to Columbus GA where he attended Edgewood, then as a teen Bobby attended Baker High School and went on to attend API (Auburn University) followed by enlisting in the Air Force. Bobby was a builder by trade, able to fix anything, owned numerous businesses, one being the legacy of Bobby’s Bar. One of his passions was flying airplanes.

Bobby was a man of wisdom, steady character and strength. Also was a hardworking man that was especially and personally devoted to his family and friends. He loved his church, Living Grace and his church family.

Bobby is preceded in death by his wife, Sara “Janet” Brooks. Bobby and Janet were married 70 years at her passing and together 74 years.

He is survived by his children, Robin Beatty (Doug) of Marietta, GA, Kelly Kunkle of Columbus, GA, David Wilkerson (Elisa) of Columbus, GA, six grandchildren, Jill New (Jonathan), John Beatty (Jessica), Bill Martin (Lauren), Brooke Greenlee ( Anthony), Stuart Wilkerson (Natalie), Shannon Hopkins (Taylor) and nine great-grandchildren, a loving niece, Diane Haywood, and 2 nieces and nephew, a loving church family.

Funeral services will be held 3:00 PM, Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at Living Grace Church with Dr. Buddy Cooper officiating. The family will receive friends following the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Living Grace Church at 3969 Edgewood Circle Columbus, GA 31907 or https://living-gracechurch.com.

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Rakeshkumar Patel
03/27/2026

Rakeshkumar Patel

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James M HolderJames Michael Holder was born on December 22, 1958, in Columbus, Georgia and died in Lee County, Alabama o...
03/26/2026

James M Holder

James Michael Holder was born on December 22, 1958, in Columbus, Georgia and died in Lee County, Alabama on March 20,2026.

Mike’s father was the late James G. Holder and his mother is June Edmondson Holder.

In addition to his mother, Mike has a sister Jenny, Celia Page, his companion Rhonda Hudson and best friend Steve Slaughter and his wife Marsha. Mike was retired from Pitts Trailers with 23 years of service as a welder and a contract landscaper. Mike lived simply. He enjoyed being outdoors. He loved hunting,fishing, raising livestock and gardening. He shot his first deer before he could drive and his parents were shocked when they picked him up only to find him with a huge 10 pointer that they had not anticipated. Mike was never one to belabor the small things in life. He was his own man and he will be truly missed.

Graveside services will be held 3:00 PM Monday, March 30, 2026 at Parkhill Cemetery. A brief visitation will be held after the services at the cemetery.

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Linda HendricksLinda Jean Campbell Hendricks, 79, of Columbus, GA passed away Friday, March 20, 2026 at Piedmont Regiona...
03/26/2026

Linda Hendricks

Linda Jean Campbell Hendricks, 79, of Columbus, GA passed away Friday, March 20, 2026 at Piedmont Regional Hospital in Columbus, GA.

Private services will be held at a later date according to McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory, 3874 Gentian Blvd, Columbus, GA 31907.

Linda was born June 21, 1946 in Columbus, GA; daughter of the late Melvin James Joshua Campbell and Mavis Odell Wood Campbell. She was a Registered Nurse specializing in Neonatal Infant Care.

Other than her parents, Linda was preceded in death by her brothers, Bobby Joe Campbell, Melvin Wayne Campbell, and Larry James Campbell.

Survivors include her children, Jay Kevin Hendricks, Carin Juanice Hendricks and Josh Campbell Hendricks (Erin); grandchildren, Ashlie Huckaby (Steven), Sydney Hendricks and Katherine Hendricks; great grandchildren, Asher Huckaby and Harper Huckaby.

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Bruce E. SellersBruce E. Sellers died peacefully Sunday March 22, 2026. Bruce was a lifelong resident of Columbus. He wa...
03/25/2026

Bruce E. Sellers

Bruce E. Sellers died peacefully Sunday March 22, 2026.

Bruce was a lifelong resident of Columbus. He was a student of human nature, a teacher, and an avid cyclist.All services will be private.

Bruce requested donations be made to the Columbus Public Library or Columbus Hospice of Georgia & Alabama. No flowers please.

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Burnet R. QuickColonel Burnet “Burnie” Rea Quick, USA (Ret.)October 26, 1943 – March 24, 2026Burnie Quick – a soldier, c...
03/25/2026

Burnet R. Quick

Colonel Burnet “Burnie” Rea Quick, USA (Ret.)

October 26, 1943 – March 24, 2026

Burnie Quick – a soldier, civic servant, leader, devoted husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at home in Columbus, GA on March 24, 2026. He was 82 years old. Those who knew him best knew him as a fighter: a man who met every chapter of life with courage, grit, and an unshakeable resolve to find joy in it. Even in death.

Born in New Orleans, LA on October 26, 1943, Burnie lost his mother at just 11 years old. He found his footing with his aunt and uncle, Ginger and Len Preston, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama (the first of many times in his life he would face hardship head-on and never look back). It was at Marion Military Institute that he found both his calling as an infantryman and the love of his life, Mary Frances McDonald. He earned his degree from Troy State University in 1965 and later a Master’s in Psychology from the University of Georgia in 1972.

Commissioned into the regular army as a 2nd Lieutenant in 1965, Burnie was a lifelong Airborne Infantry Ranger serving 28 distinguished years across the globe. He began as a platoon leader with the Berlin Brigade during some of the tensest years of the Cold War, then deployed twice to Vietnam. First as a platoon leader and company commander with A Company, 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry, the 4th Infantry Division, and again with D Company, 2nd Battalion,16th Infantry, the 1st Infantry Division, where he served as a company commander and intelligence officer. In Germany, he went on to command the 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry, 3rd Infantry Division, and later the 3rd Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division. Prior to his last post, Burnie served as Chief of Staff of the 3rd Infantry Division in Würzburg, finally retiring in 1994 as Chief of Staff of Fort Benning, GA. An installation he helped earn the designation of Best Large Military Installation in the world.

His decorations included two Silver Stars, two Legions of Merit, and a Bronze Star for Valor with 5 Oak Leaf Clusters. Other military schools he completed include the National War College and the British Higher Command and Staff College. In 2014, he was inducted into the Alabama Military Hall of Honor.

Retirement for Burnie simply meant the next mission. He served as President of Uptown Columbus, Inc. and launched the Columbus Business Improvement District, playing a meaningful role in helping transform downtown Columbus into the thriving destination it is today.

In 2009, Burnie launched what he called his favorite career of all: a life as Grandaddy. He said it himself: “I loved every day I spent in the Army. I loved every day I spent revitalizing downtown Columbus. But my true calling is enjoying retirement with my wife Frances, children Shannon and Jeffery, and two grandchildren, Parker and Lacey. And of course, the Georgia Bulldogs!”

He lived by a creed he passed on to his children: “Life is too hard as it is. Find the joyful moments in every little interaction you have with people, no matter how big or small the moment.”

Two weeks before he passed, he left one final instruction: “Don’t let people mourn me too long. Make people laugh and remember the good times we had.” That was Burnie. Fighter. Lover. Light of every room he entered.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Frances McDonald Quick; his daughter, Shannon Reid Quick of Columbus; his son, Jeffery Wade Quick of Atlanta, daughter-in-law Amanda McAvan Quick, and grandchildren Parker Moseley Quick and Lacey Rose Quick; and his sister, Mary Reid Flukinger of Columbus, and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leslie Burnet Quick and Gladys Parker Quick; his sister, Beverly Quick Kearney; his cousin, Peggy Wilkinson Virski; and his aunt and uncle, Ginger and Len Preston.

The Memorial Service will take place Thursday, April 16, 2026, 11am-12pm, at Trinity Episcopal Church: 1130 1st Avenue, Columbus, GA 31901. Visitation to follow in the church. The Inurnment Thursday will take place afterwards from 1:30 – 2:00 p.m. at Fort Mitchell National Cemetery: 553 Alabama Highway 165, Fort Mitchell, AL 36856.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to Trinity Episcopal Church, The Historic Columbus Foundation or Marion Military Institute in Marion, AL.

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3874 Gentian Boulevard
Columbus, GA
31907

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Our Story

We have years of experience caring for families, from all walks of life. Each family comes to us because they know we are leaders in our profession, dedicated to excellence in service, and have the highest integrity. Our History James McMullen started working in Columbus as a young man in his father's business, McMullen Garage and Service Station located on Andrews Road in Columbus, Ga. He attended Rosemont Elementary and was a 1958 Graduate of Jordan Vocational High School. After graduating from high school, James attended Georgia Southwestern College. He was a U.S. Army Veteran serving in Germany. After returning from Europe in 1961, he began his career in Funeral Service. In 1964, James graduated from Dallas Institute of Mortuary Science in Dallas, TX. and worked locally for many years. In 1987 he and his son Allen and their family opened McMullen Mortuary. Mr. McMullen, who died in 2015, served thousands of families in this community over the past 50 years. The roots of McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory go back to 1987. The original business was located on 13th Street and Webster Ave. in downtown Columbus, Georgia. "It is important to improve the level of service available to Muscogee County families, and establish more of a community oriented business," states Allen McMullen. In March of 1995 a groundbreaking was held for the new facility on Gentian Blvd. On July 15, 1996, an open house and dedication ceremony was held for the new funeral home. The 18,000 square-foot facility features a spacious chapel, viewing rooms, a family lounge, and more than 200 parking spaces. The building also contains handicapped accessible facilities. The chapel area is designed not just to accommodate wheelchair users, but to make sure that they can participate in services in a meaningful fashion. "In a community like Columbus," noted Allen McMullen, "it's almost impossible to separate friends, neighbors and family. We're honored and humbled that so many people look upon the McMullen family and staff as an extension of their own family. It's a compliment-and a deep trust-that we sincerely try to uphold in everything we do. Our life is more than just neighbors helping neighbors, its friends caring for friends every day, all the time, not just in times of need."