Eric Mulloy Handlin was born in Kermit, TX, on August 21st, 1973, where he was raised through childhood and met his lifelong best friends, Charlie Gibson and Marco Aranda. Shortly after graduating high school, he became a service member in the United States Air Force. He later became a dedicated firefighter/paramedic, devoted father, loving son, brother, and friend, selflessly giving 25 years of service to Odessa Fire Rescue. Eric passed on September 4th, 2026, in Odessa, TX, surrounded by the love of those who mattered most to him.

Eric is preceded in death by his father, Barry Handlin, and stepfather, James “Moose” Thomas. Eric is survived by his wife, Corinna, and five children, Jered, Jade, Jake, Cooper, and Zoey; his mother, Judy Thomas; sister, Kari Wadsworth and husband, David, and their children; stepsister, Jaime Kneisley; stepsister, Sheira Petty; and stepbrother, Dwane Thomas.

Eric spent his life serving others on their worst days and was known as a kindhearted mentor both on and off the job, bringing up younger firefighters and paramedics, providing valuable lessons taught from experience, and often outworking them on incidents. He may have wanted to be known as the “salty veteran”; however, not a single person failed to see through to the fact that his biggest concern was his brothers and sisters beside him.

He was brave, hardworking, and generous, but those who knew him best know that being a father was the role he cherished most. His children, or his “little monkeys,” were his world. He loved them fiercely, supported them endlessly, and was always there with a helping hand, listening ear, or a reason to smile.

He gave so much of himself to others, but his greatest legacy will always be the love he gave his family and friends. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, carried on, and celebrated in the hearts of the people who were blessed to have the privilege of knowing him.

A Memorial Service will be held at First Baptist Church of Odessa, Monday, September 14, 2026, 10:00 AM. Pastor Byron McWilliams is officiating. Services are provided by Sunset Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home.