Francis McNulty

Francis Thomas McNulty, known affectionately to friends and family as Frank, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on June 8, 1946, in Baltimore, Maryland, to the late Earl and Dorothy McNulty, Frank lived a life marked by dedication to his family, a career working as a civilian for the US Coast Guard, and a love for the simple joys of life, like eating at some of his favorite local restaurants (e.g. Enotria, Bonefish Grill and Pizza Johns), attending weekly services at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, as well as fishing on a quiet morning.
He is preceded in death by his brother Ronald McNulty and sister Earline McNulty. He is survived by his devoted wife, Susan McNulty (nee Isensee) of 57+ years, their sons, Paul McNulty and his wife Hope, Brian McNulty and his wife Kristie, Eric McNulty and his wife Sarah, his sister Helen Simms and his sister-in-law Gloria Peake and her husband Calvin. Frank's role as a grandfather brought him immense joy, and he cherished every moment with his grandchildren, Luke McNulty, Gavin McNulty and Lilly McNulty, as well as his step-grandchildren, Alex Martinez, Joshua Sypolt, Zach Burns, Natalie Burns, Sam Burns and Mikayla Burns.
Frank's commitment to his country was evident in his 25-year career with the US Coast Guard as an Ordnance Mechanic and later in his career an Ordnance Foreman. His work was not just a job, it was something he was passionate about. Frank's colleagues remember him as a man who led by example, always willing to do what was needed to make a deadline and get the job done.
Beyond his professional life, Frank was a pillar of strength and love for his family. Frank put his family first and was always there when they needed him. Frank was also a 19+ year Mantle Cell Lymphoma cancer survivor. Frank's passion for life extended to his hobbies. An avid fisherman, he found solace and excitement in the quiet tug of a line and the thrill of a catch. His favorite fishing spots became places of legend. Frank was well known and loved by many in the local fishing community where he built a rapport and many lifelong friendships. Frank also fished in many tournaments in his retirement including tournaments for the Fishers of Men with Brian and Eric.
Those who knew Frank would describe him as passionate, selfless, and generous. He had the rare ability to listen intently, advise wisely, and give of himself without expecting anything in return. His presence was a source of stability and comfort to those around him, and left a legacy of a strong work ethic, honesty, integrity and loyalty.
As we bid farewell to Francis Thomas McNulty, we remember a man whose life was as deep and vibrant as the waters he so loved to explore. His was a life well-lived, full of purpose, joy, and an abundance of love.
A Memorial Service/Celebration of Life Ceremony will be held to honor Frank's life and legacy on February 22nd at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Bel Air, Maryland. Visitation with friends and family will be from 10:00 - 11:00 and a Memorial Service/Celebration of Life Ceremony will start at 11:00. His interment of ashes will be placed in St. Matthew's columbarium.
In the stillness of the water, in the laughter of his grandchildren, and in the stories that will be told for generations, Frank's spirit lives on. We take comfort in knowing that his journey has not ended but simply changed course, as he casts his line into the heavenly waters in the hands of his heavenly father, embarking on the greatest fishing adventure of all. Rest in peace, dear Frank. Your catch was plentiful, your heart was full, and you will be forever cherished.
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