BIOGRAPHY

Mattie Mobley was born in Tallahassee, Florida, USA, on 4 February 1914, the tenth of eleven children to George and Alice Hall. Mobley’s dedication to her Christian faith began at the age of nine, when she was baptized and became a member of St. Peter Missionary Church. Her spiritual journey continued throughout her life, ultimately as a devoted member of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church until her passing.

She received her early education in the public school system of Leon County and graduated from Lincoln High School. Pursuing higher education, she attended Florida A&M University with a focus on education. Recognizing the value of entrepreneurship, she also completed training in cosmetology and established herself as an independent business owner in Tallahassee. She successfully operated her beauty salon for over 30 years, retiring in 1989.

Following her retirement, she embarked on a new path as a certified home caregiver, receiving accreditation from the State of Florida. She went on to provide compassionate home health services to economically disadvantaged individuals until 2007. She offered housing, financial assistance, and moral support to numerous students attending Florida A&M University.

Mobley embraced the importance of political engagement early in life, registering to vote in 1948 and dedicating herself as a lifelong election poll worker. She was also deeply involved in the NAACP. She took part in the 1956 Tallahassee bus boycott and remained a dedicated advocate for civil and voting rights well into her 90s.

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.

Throughout her life, she faithfully served in a variety of roles within numerous civic and religious organizations in her community. Her involvement included longstanding service at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, where she was an active member of the Senior Choir—serving as past vice president—and a Sunday School teacher for over 15 years. She also held leadership positions on the Usher Board, including president and vice president. In addition, she taught Sunday School for 10 years at Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church.

She was recognized with numerous awards and honors. These include the Bethel Missionary Baptist Church Award for Dedication and Unselfish Service (three years), the Gold Star Award from the Tallahassee Chapter in 2013, the Silver Star Award, and her induction into the Florida Civil Rights Museum’s Wall of Distinction in 2025.

Mobley passed away in Tallahassee, Florida, United States, on 8 April 2025, at the age of 111 years, 63 days.

RECOGNITION

Her age was verified by Eli Logan, Stefan Maglov, and Marco Wikkerink, and validated by LongeviQuest on 13 February 2025.

ATTRIBUTION

* “105-year-old Tallahassee woman honored for her life and achievements” – WCTV, 29 September 2019

* “Tallahassee woman celebrates 107th birthday in style” – WTXL Tallahassee, 4 February 2021

* Rev. Dr. Mattie Hall Mobley – Florida Civil Rights Museum

* Tallahassee civil rights activist Mattie Mobley passes away at age of 111 – WCTV, 15 April 2025

* Mattie Mobley Obituary – Legacy

GALLERY