Mary F. (Nelligan) Mullins

Mary (Nelligan) Mullins passed away on August 15, 2026, after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. She was the daughter of the late William Nelligan and Margaret (Burke) Nelligan and sister to the late William Nelligan and Margaret (Nelligan) Gilbane. Born and raised in Brockton, MA. Mary spent her life in the home where she was born—a place filled with decades of cherished memories and family traditions. Mary attended Brockton High School, graduating in 1952, and later served on the BHS reunion committee. She graduated from Katherine Gibbs Secretarial School and went on to enjoy a career as a secretary where she was known for her dedication and professionalism.

Mary shared 63 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Fred. Together they built a life centered on love, faith, and family. She was the proud and devoted mother of six children: Frederick A. Mullins III and his wife, Darlene Mullins; Sean Mullins; Margaret Welch and her husband, Kevin Welch; Michael Mullins and his wife, Kathleen Cronin; Terrence Mullins and his wife, Diana Mullins; and Megan Arkinson and her husband, Keith Arkinson. She was a cherished grandmother to Frederick A. Mullins IV, Sara Mullins, Matthew Mullins, Jack Mullins, Nola Mullins, Brandon Welch, Alec Welch, Nicholas Welch, Corey Perry, Regan Mullins, Kade Arkinson, and Brayden Arkinson. She was also the proud great-grandmother of Wesley Welch and Wade Welch.

Mary was active in the 20th Century Club and a member of Saint Edwards Church, where she taught CCD and formed lasting friendships and gave her time in service to her community and her faith. Mary loved playing Chinese checkers and other board games, especially with her grandchildren, crossword puzzles, and her nightly game of solitaire. She never missed an episode of General Hospital and enjoyed taking her daily walks. One of her favorite traditions was her Saturday evening date night with Fred where they would often meet up with friends and cousins for dinner. She loved the sun and traveling to the Caribbean islands and in later years Marco Island, FL.  She treasured her time at Parkwood Beach in Wareham, where she loved swimming, reading in the sun while working on her tan, riding her bicycle, taking long walks, and enjoying a good lobster roll. Those summers were filled with laughter, family gatherings, and memories that will be cherished for generations.

Mary loved fashion and her style was impeccable.  She will be remembered for her quiet strength, kind heart, resilience, and unconditional love for her family.  She faced life’s challenges with courage and grace, and even through her battle with Parkinson’s disease, her love for those around her never wavered.

Her greatest accomplishment was the family she and Fred built together. Her legacy lives on through her husband of 63 years, her six children, eleven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and the countless lives she touched with her warmth, generosity, and love. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in the hearts of all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers and in memory of Mary please consider a donation to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s research or the charity of your choice.

All are welcome to visitation on Thursday August 20th from 9-10 a.m. at Waitt Funeral Home, 850 North Main St., Brockton, followed by her funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. at St. Edith Stein Church, 71 East Main St., Brockton and burial at Calvary Cemetery, Brockton. In keeping with Mary’s vibrant personality, the family asks that colorful clothing be worn.

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