Roll Call Tribute

Published in Houston Chronicle on June 4, 2017

Keith Mullins(1946 - 2017)
Keith Allan Mullins
1946-2017
Keith Allan Mullins, affectionately known to many as "Moon," died peacefully at his home on Friday, the 26th of May 2017 at the age of 70, surrounded by loved ones. He fought a sudden, short, but relentless battle with cancer that culminated, far too quickly, in thirteen weeks.
Keith was born the 15th of October 1946 in Baytown, Texas to Ethyl and Raymond "Pete" Mullins. He attended Robert E. Lee High School where he earned the distinction of Eagle Scout and played linebacker on the football team. Keith was a proud graduate of Texas A&M University class of 1969 with a Bachelors Degree in Business. He was a member of the Corps of Cadets, Squadron 11. After college, Keith attended the Officers Candidate School of the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs as a 2nd Lieutenant for pilot training and later a Captain in the United States Air Force. When his service concluded, Keith earned his law degree from the South Texas College of Law, then married in 1974 and had three children. Soon thereafter, he started his own law practice with Paul Holladay and Steve Bray, where the three attorneys spent forty years together serving clients. Keith's legal persona was distinguished by tireless dedication to his clients and extreme diligence about his work, through which he earned immense respect in the Houston real estate community over the span of his 43 year career. His clients were his family, and the professional relationships he cultivated lasted his lifetime.
Keith's most cherished friendships were forged during his years as an Aggie, and their group remained iron clad, constantly in touch, planning golf outings, discussing football games, and always aware of every aspect of one another's lives. A member of the 12th Man Foundation at Texas A&M, Keith was a football season ticket holder for decades, and he never missed a game. During his college years, Keith and five friends formed the band "Ghost Coach," and he dutifully played the drums as they graced stages all over Texas. They continued to gather, rehearse, and perform until this past year, where they played their last set at a reunion event in College Station.
Keith's enthusiasm for sports was undeniable. He cared deeply for young athletes and dedicated much time to teaching them. A treasured hobby was volunteering as a coach and referee for the Memorial area football teams. He was respected for his patience, focus, and meticulous observation of the game. Keith's passion for golf began as a pilot at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, and the game became a lifelong favorite pastime. His guilty pleasure was the occasional poker game, and he never passed up a chance to hunt or fish.
Keith met Linda Lou "Effy" Effenberger Gardner in May of 2011, and they shared a love that embodied a classic romance. Their love story began on a first date at The Raven Grill, during which they shared an instantaneous connection and countless common interests including college sports, political views, and a mutual sense of humor. He and Effy married on August 13, 2013. They truly enjoyed every moment of their marriage, from the daily ritual of Effy's home cooked dinners after Keith returned from work, many sports events, and vacations with friends to Mexico and the Caribbean. Their grandsons lovingly knew Keith as "Kiki" and will always treasure the memories of the countless sleepovers, fried egg breakfasts, and bedtime stories they shared. Up until his last days, Effy was a natural-born caregiver, doting on Keith at his bedside. One of Keith's last sentiments to Effy was that he couldn't believe their "love affair was coming to an end."
Keith's father and mother, Raymond Lee "Pete" Mullins and Ethyl Young Welch Mullins, preceded him in death. Keith is survived by his adoring wife, Linda Lou "Effy" Mullins; his step-children: Alyssa Gardner Kilpatrick and husband Brian, Linda Gardner Schubert and husband Scheyne, and Elmer Charles Gardner, III; his children: Brian Keith Mullins and wife Deanna, Rebecca Jane Mullins and husband Benjamin, and Andrew Steven Mullins and wife Christina; his sister Melissa Raye Mullins and brother Michael Lynn Mullins; and his thirteen grandchildren. The family is grateful for the care and dedication of his physicians and nurses at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center.
"The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 31:8
A private memorial service will be conducted at the Church of St. John the Divine, 2450 River Oaks Boulevard in Houston, where the Rev. Dr. Douglas W. Richnow, Senior Associate Rector, is to officiate. Prior to the service, loved ones will have gathered for a private interment at his gravesite in Martindale, Texas. In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions in memory of Mr. Keith Allan Mullins may be directed to Houston Hospice, 1905 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030.