Vernon "Ray" Mullen

Vernon Ray Mullen, lovingly known as Ray, passed away peacefully at home on March 29, 2026, in North Platte, Nebraska, surrounded by his family. He was 81 years old. Ray was born on March 30, 1944, in Flagler, Colorado, to Vernon and Maxine (Anderson) Mullen. Throughout his life, he lived in various communities across Nebraska and Colorado before settling in Ogallala, Nebraska, where he made his longtime home.

Ray was previously married, and from that union his oldest son was born. He later met the love of his life and soulmate, Tonya Anne Godbey. The couple were united in marriage on April 12, 1969, and together they raised four children while building a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Ray was a devoted husband, father, and proud “Papa,” known for his strong work ethic, kind heart, and unwavering dedication to his family.

Ray proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1966 to 1968. After his service, he returned to Ogallala, where he worked for Ray Ness Construction for more than 20 years. During that time, he formed lasting friendships with coworkers he considered family. In 1998, Ray and Tonya moved to North Platte, where they managed Sandridge Apartments until 2004. He took great pride in his work, always striving to keep the property well maintained and welcoming.

From 2004 to 2007, Ray and Tonya embarked on a new adventure in Blackhawk, South Dakota. There, Ray enjoyed retirement and embraced the beauty and serenity of the Black Hills. In 2007, they returned to North Platte, where he spent the remainder of his life.

Ray’s passion for country music was more than a hobby—it was part of who he was. Gifted with a remarkable singing voice, he performed in numerous bands over the years, including Champion Valley Boys, Swingin Kings, Ramrods, Vern Mullen Country VIP's, Gene Olson & Country Classics, Something Country, and his most notable group, Ray Mullen & the Country VIP’s. In recognition of his talent and long-standing contributions to the genre, Ray was inducted into the Nebraska Country Music Hall of Fame in 2015. Even in his later years, his love for music never faded, and he continued sharing his voice at the Senior Center and local nursing homes.

Ray will be remembered for his generosity, warm smile, and willingness to help anyone in need. He brought joy to those around him, and his legacy lives on in the many lives he touched.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon Phillip and Maxine Mullen; his sisters, Phyllis Bell Mullen and Gloria Jean Styskal; and his son, Phillip Wayne Mullen.

Ray is survived by his loving wife, Tonya Mullen of North Platte; his children, Shawna (Jason) Cooper, Chris Mullen (Jodi Sander), and Kitrina (Anthony) Loomis; his siblings, Jerry Styskal, Darlene (Rich) Davies, Roger Mullen, Doyle (Yvette) Mullen, and Rita (Rick) Archuletta; his grandchildren, Austin Mullen (Masyn Manley), Brayden Mullen, Ramsey Mullen, Jalyn (Billy) Schlosser, Sydney Mullen-Shaw (Devin O’Brian), Lance Mullen (Kaylee Leach), Tristan Mullen, Hunter (Lamya) Cooper, Jaron Cooper, Markus Overstreet, Mason Loomis, and Maddox Loomis; and seven great-grandchildren.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 from 8:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m., with family present from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Odean Colonial Chapel. A Memorial Service will be held at Odean Colonial Chapel on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. Inurnment to follow at Fort McPherson National Cemetery, near Maxwell, at 3 p.m. The family requests that memorial gifts be made to St.Jude Make A Wish.

Online condolences may be shared at https://www.odeanchapel.com. Odean Colonial Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.