Gretchen Mullen, 81, of Syracuse, NY, passed away on Monday, February 23, 2026. She was born on March 5, 1944, and was raised in Syracuse, NY by Albert and Beverly Houser.  

Gretchen was a devoted spouse, mother, grandmother, and friend. She attended Central High School and Most Holy Rosary School where she remained a parishioner throughout her life. Marrying Billy (William Mullen) shortly after high school, Gretchen dedicated herself to raising their children before joining the workforce full-time. She began by cleaning theatres, then went into customer service at Fay’s Drug Store. Soon she worked at Wegmans, advancing to a manager where she enjoyed this position for several years, until moving on to work at The Hotel Syracuse and eventually the gift shop located within the hotel. Gretchen would share stories of all the interesting people she would meet while passing through the hotel. During her working years, Gretchen  enjoyed tap dancing, frequently performing in recitals. In retirement, Gretchen spent most of her time with her grandchildren. She would take them on “adventures,” often to the Duck Pond and always included a stop for lunch or spending an afternoon on a puzzle.  When she was not with her family, Gretchen could be found with her friends enjoying an afternoon at lunch or relaxing on the front porch.  

Gretchen was preceded in death by her husband, William F. Mullen (2015); her daughter, Laurie (Mullen) Clemons (2016); and her son, William J. (Billy) Mullen (1987). She is survived by her children, Matthew (Emily), Jammie, Kevin, and Anne-Marie Mancilla (Jesus); and her grandchildren, Bill Mullen, Amy Macintosh (Rob), Christopher Clemons (Casey), Eileen Mullen, and Maya and Jackson Mancilla, 6 great-grandchildren, Emerson, Anna, Michael, Isobel, Elliot and Alayna, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. Also, not forgotten, Tucker whom she shared many creamsicles with.  

Gretchen will be remembered for her kindness, devotion to her family, and the love she shared with all who knew her. 

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, from 4:00–6:00 p.m. at Edward J. Ryan Funeral Home followed by a short service. Burial will take place at Valley Cemetery on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Dementia Society of America, the Epilepsy Foundation, or St. Camillus Nursing Home in loving memory of Gretchen Mullen.