Ronald Jon Mullen

Ronald Jon Mullen, a revered figure in law enforcement and a cherished member of the Catonsville, Maryland community, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at the age of 86.

Ron embarked on a distinguished career with the Baltimore Police Department on December 29, 1960, as a foot beat officer in the Southwest district. His unwavering dedication and exemplary leadership skills propelled him through the ranks of sergeant, lieutenant, captain, major, and chief, culminating in his appointment to the prestigious position of Deputy Commissioner of Operations from July 1984 until March 1992.

Throughout his tenure, Ron was instrumental in transforming the Baltimore Police Department into one of the nation’s most efficient and respected law enforcement agencies. His remarkable achievement of being the only individual below the rank of chief executive to graduate from the FBI’s National Academy underscored his unparalleled commitment to excellence in public service. Ron’s introduction of administrative safeguards and his steadfast vigilance ensured that the force remained generally free of corruption and scandal, earning him widespread acclaim and respect.

After 31 and a half year illustrious career with the Baltimore Police Department, Ron retired as Deputy Police Commissioner in 1992. He then assumed the role of Director of Security at Johns Hopkins University, where he served with distinction for another 13 years until his retirement in 2005.

Retirement allowed Ron to cherish the simpler pleasures of life, especially spending time with his beloved family and enjoying trips to Ocean City and Atlantic City. His compassionate spirit led him to support numerous philanthropic organizations focused on the care and treatment of disabled children, further testament to his unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

Ron is survived by Loving Wife of 37 years, Liz Mullen; Dear Children Nancy Deems (nee Mullen) and husband Glenn, JoAnn Darrow (nee Mullen) and husband Mark, Tracy Miller (nee Felthouse) and husband Glen; Cherished Grandchildren Rachael Kavalok (nee Deems) and husband Ryan, Sarah Deems, Megan Pannebaker (nee Darrow) and husband Tom, Caryn Darrow, Mark Alan Darrow, G.A. Miller, and Savannah Miller; and 4 Cherished Great-Grandchildren. Ron is preceded in death by his brothers, James Mullen and Thomas Mullen.

A memorial gathering to honor and celebrate the life of Ronald Jon Mullen will be held on Friday, March 15, 2024, from 10:00am to 11:00am at Gary L. Kaufman Funeral Home at Meadowridge Memorial Park, 7250 Washington Blvd, Elkridge, MD 21075. A memorial service will begin at 11:00am, immediately followed by a committal and inurnment at Meadowridge Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Ron's memory can be made to the Kennedy Krieger Institute. https://www.kennedykrieger.org/foundation/ways-to-give/tribute-giving