SUFFOLK—Denise Rae Mullins, 67, passed away on October 31, 2023 at the UVA Medical Center in Charlottesville, VA surrounded by her closest family and dearest friend.

She was born in Baltimore, Maryland to the late Bill Lewis Allen and Doris Carlisle Allen.  Denise had a very special bond with her parents and deeply respected the many contributions they made in her life. Denise enjoyed a wonderful childhood with her sisters in East Brunswick, New Jersey.  She often spoke of cherished memories of dear friends in all stages of life and particularly valued the friendships she cultivated during her time at Florida State University.   In 1980, she earned her Masters in Social Work, later she obtained her LCSW, and was named a Diplomate in the field.  She used her skill to guide and support her clients, employees, and colleagues for over 40 years.  She was a respected leader and positive force in the mental health community.

Those lucky enough to know Denise know she loved big and out loud.  She was generous and fun-loving.  She was a fierce advocate for her loved ones, an invaluable resource to her clients, and a passionate supporter of rescuing animals.  She cherished time spent with her husband, Bryan, rather it be on vacation, at the local club pool or lounging in their den enjoying each other's company.  She loved to travel and spend time with her sisters. She cherished her daughters, grandchildren, and her beloved cats.  She made certain her family knew they were her greatest gift.  The hole she leaves is immeasurable.

In addition to her parents, Denise was predeceased by her in-laws, Stickley and Norma Mullins. She enjoyed wonderful memories and close bond with Norma.  She is survived by her husband of 29 years Bryan Mullins; daughters, Jayme Yeatts (Steve) and Abby Geer (Johnny); three sisters: Becky, Suzanne (Don), and Gretchen; and four grandchildren: Aaron, Coltyn, Cadie, and Chelsey as well as a niece, Alexis, and two nephews, Adam and Kyle, all of whom she loved dearly.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, November 11, 2023 at Foster Funeral Home, 1926 High St., Portsmouth, VA. A Celebration of Life is being planned, to occur after the upcoming holidays.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Best Friends Animal Society (bestfriends.org), Laura's Roadside Rescue, or The Humane Society in her honor/memory. Condolences may be registered at BWFosterFuneralHome.com.