Southern Illinoisan Website Aptil 11, 2015 BENTON -- Nathan David Mullen, 31, of Benton, passed away suddenly in his home on April 9, 2015, after fighting a long, hard battle with addiction, from which he always wanted to be free and always hoped that he would overcome. He was born May 26, 1983, in West Frankfort, and lived most of his adult life in Carbondale. Nicknamed "Tons-of-Fun" by his friends, he was truly unforgettable, and was loved fiercely by his family and community. He filled the lives of all who knew him with joy, laughter, acceptance, and love from his kind, forgiving, generous, loyal, and too-big-for-this-world heart. In addition to his amazing smile, Nathan was known for being extremely bright and talented. He received many accolades in high school and college for his ability as an actor, and continued his love for the arts in his private life as a songwriter, poet, and musician. Whether in joy or sorrow, by God's grace Nathan faced life bravely, always with hope and laughter. Nathan is survived by his parents, David and Janie Mullen, and Crystal Swan-Gravatt and Rick Gravatt; his sister, Natalie Mullen; his grandparents, Virgil and Joann Mullen and Jerry and Carolyn Swan; eight stepsiblings; many aunts, uncles and cousins; and countless friends. Services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, April 13, Tate's Chapel Church in Galatia. Burial will follow. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, April 12, in Sloan's Funeral Home in Galatia.