Meet The Team

Marcia DeRush

Marcia DeRush is the Chaplain, Founder, and CEO of The McMullen House for Heroes, INC. Her love and compassion for first responders and our military are what have inspired her to create a caring, safe place for those in these fields to go to talk, reset, or recharge. Whatever they need to do to get to where they need to be spiritually, mentally, and physically. Chaplain Marcia is ordained and endorsed by Chaplain Fellowship Ministries. She has been an ordained minister in the past and a chaplain since 2010. Her training certificates come from numerous colleges and departments. Chaplain is available for lay counseling, Grief counseling and support, CISM/GRIN, Speaking event, or any other needs. 

Bob McMullen Jr.

Bob is the eldest son of Robert McMullen Sr. (Mack). Born in Texas. Bob has worked in construction
most of his life and is now retired. He is married to Debbie, and they have four children, eight grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. He enjoys the country life on the border of North Carolina and Virginia. Bob enjoys his black powder guns and his indoor garden.

Elwood McMullen

Elwood is the youngest son of “Mack”. Elwood has worked in construction and has
worked for one of the embassies in Washington, DC. He is married to Juliette and they have 2 children.
They live in Maryland. Elwood enjoys outdoor activities, hiking, camping, and has traveled to several
countries.

Johnnie and Crystal Whaley

Crystal, the eldest daughter of Chaplain Marcia DeRush, recently married Johnnie, a long-time family friend of over 20 years. The two families were formally united on November 16, 2024. Crystal and Johnnie are co-owners and operators of Eternal Daystar Enterprise LLC. In addition to his entrepreneurial pursuits, Johnnie serves as a volunteer firefighter at Navassa Fire Station 19, continuing to serve the community. Both Crystal and Johnnie are dedicated to serving their communities, supporting first responders and the military, reflecting their family ties to the military. 

Brian Locklear

Brian is a Veteran, Volunteer firefighter, and works for the US Postal Service.  Brian resides in Whiteville, NC. 

John and Jenny Beattie

Serving as spiritual advisors to the McMullen House. John is a Marine Veteran and the Pastor of
Abundant Life Assembly of God. He also works for the US Postal Service. Jenny is the Worship Leader at
the church and works for the county. They have 2 children and live in Whiteville, NC. John is passionate
about fishing and enjoys hunting also. They love their community.