Stormy Mullins

Stormy Mullins

Stormy Mullins, a lifelong horseman, educator, and respected leader in the rodeo and Mustang communities, passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a legacy that reaches far beyond the arena gate.

Born in Glendale, California, and raised in Burleson, Texas, Stormy grew up rooted in the values, grit, and quiet strength that would define his life. A cowboy in the truest sense—never loud or showy, but steady, thoughtful, and deeply authentic—he earned respect not by words, but simply by showing up.

Stormy dedicated 26 years to education as a high school Agricultural Science teacher in Azle, Texas, shaping generations of students through mentorship, high expectations, and genuine care. After retiring from the classroom, he continued to devote his life to the work he loved. He spent several years coaching the rodeo team at Weatherford College, where his leadership and horsemanship influenced countless student-athletes. He later worked for Chris Cox overseeing facility operations, assisting with clinics, and supporting operations. For the past 16 years, he worked for various nonprofit organizations producing mustang training competitions, becoming a trusted and steady presence behind the scenes. He was also a cornerstone of event production at the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo for more than 30 years, where his professionalism and leadership were widely respected.

In the mustang world, Stormy was more than a familiar face. Known to many as “Mr. Mullins,” he was often described as “the man at the gate,” though those who knew him understood he was so much more. He coordinated events with precision, always believing in what was possible—for the horses and competitors.

Above all, Stormy was immensely proud of his daughters and treasured the opportunity to work alongside them throughout their lives. From coaching softball teams and stock showing, to hauling countless miles to high school and collegiate rodeos, Stormy was always present—teaching, supporting, and leading by example. As adults, he found fulfillment in continuing to work beside them professionally, sharing both responsibility and respect. He carried that same pride and joy into his role as a grandfather, watching his grandchildren continue the family legacy through rodeo and showing.

Stormy had a rare gift: the ability to say the most with the fewest words. He could challenge you, encourage you, and humble you—sometimes all in the same sentence. One of his favorite reminders still echoes with many he mentored: “Show what your horse can do, not what it can’t.” He was competitive, but always with humor, heart, and an unshakable belief in people.

Those closest to him remember not only his professionalism, but his warmth—his sharp whistle, steady clipboard, classic mustache, and unexpected moments of fun, including karaoke nights with the crew. When Stormy called, it usually meant opportunity was coming. Entire paths were changed because he believed in someone before they believed in themselves.

Stormy was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Mullins, and his father, Roy Lee Mullins II. He is survived by his brother, Kelly Mullins, his beloved wife, Liz Mullins; his daughters Amy Donegan and husband Josh, Beth Stutts and husband Beau, and Kali Sublett and husband Ben; and his nine grandchildren: Marli, Slade, Hadley, and Danley Donegan; Addy, Wade, and Roy Stutts; and June and Kate Sublett.

A memorial service celebrating Stormy’s life will be held Friday, February 13, at 2:00 p.m. in the Will Rogers Auditorium, 3401 W Lancaster Ave., Fort Worth, Texas 76107.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Windy Ryon Memorial Roping to help fund scholarships for youth involved in rodeo and FFA—causes that reflected Stormy’s lifelong commitment to young people and agriculture.

https://www.windyryon.com/donate-scholarship-info

Stormy encouraged, inspired, and opened the gate for thousands of horses and people alike. His legacy lives on in every life he touched, every opportunity he created, and every generation that follows in his footsteps. As many have said, there will never be another Stormy Mullins—but the world is undeniably better because he was here.

May he rest in peace as our Heavenly Father opens the gates for a true cowboy.