Mattie Mobley, a civil rights activist and one of Florida’s oldest residents, passed away in Tallahassee on 8 April, at the age of 111 years, 63 days. Her passing was confirmed by WCTV and Legacy.com.
Mattie Mobley was born in Tallahassee, Florida, USA, on 4 February 1914. She was the tenth of eleven children born to George and Alice Hall. At just nine years old, she embraced her Christian faith, getting baptized and joining St. Peter Missionary Church. Her commitment to her faith only deepened over the years, and she remained an active member of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church until her passing.
Mobley began her education in Leon County’s public school system and graduated from Lincoln High School. She went on to attend Florida A&M University, where she focused on education. Recognizing the value of entrepreneurship, she also completed training in cosmetology. Later, she established herself as an independent business owner in Tallahassee. She successfully operated her beauty salon for over 30 years, retiring in 1989.
Mobley embraced the importance of political engagement early in life, registering to vote in 1948, becoming a lifelong election poll worker. She was also deeply involved in the NAACP. On 6 August 1942, at the age of 28, she married Arthur Lee Mobley, Sr. Together, they raised three children: Aramentha, Arthur, and Gail. She also had a stepdaughter, Alfreddie.
At the time of her passing, she was the second-oldest known living person in Florida, USA, after Anna Natella.
The featured image was taken in 2016, and sourced from the Tallahassee Democrat.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Mattie Mobley during this difficult time.