Steven Lee Mullen Ph. D.'s Obituary
**Steven Lee Mullen, Ph.D. **
Steven Lee Mullen, Ph.D., beloved husband, father, brother, mentor and pioneering atmospheric scientist, passed away on September 1, 2025, in Tucson, Arizona. He was 73 years old.
Born on November 8, 1951, in Norfolk, Virginia, Steve earned his Ph.D. in Atmospheric Sciences from the University of Washington and went on to join the faculty at the University of Arizona, where he taught and conducted research in meteorology for 35 years. His work advanced the field of weather prediction, particularly through ensemble forecasting, and his dedication to mentoring inspired generations of students who carry his passion forward.
Beyond his academic life, Steve cherished family, conversation and holiday meals. He loved talking about weather, sports, and politics with his two sons. He taught them pinochle at an early age, later joining them in playing fantasy football across two leagues. He was an avid hiker, backpacker, camper and cyclist, always at home in nature.
Steve is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Rita Jackson-Mullen; his sons, Zachary Mullen of Boulder, Colorado, and Ryan Jackson and his partner, Tamara Greenwell of Vancouver, Washington; his brothers, Ray Jackson and his wife, Dianna of Portland, Oregon, and Johnny Mullen and his wife, Dianna of Austin, Texas; and his dogs, Gizmo, affectionately known as "that dam dog," and Houdini.
Steve will be remembered for his warmth, wit and devotion to those he loved. His loss leaves a profound void in the lives of his family, colleagues, students and many friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in Steve's memory to the American Cancer Society honoring his life and legacy!
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