Tallahassee Says Farewell to Sybil C. Mobley

By Diamond Hunt-Coleman
Senior Outlook Writer

Mourners from across the country packed Bethel Missionary Baptist Church to say their final goodbyes to a woman who is often referred to as a legend by her peers.
Sybil C. Mobley, commonly known as “Doc” by family, friends and old students, was laid to rest on Oct. 9.
Mobley, who was born on Oct 14, 1925, was the fourth of five children between the union of Marvin Lee Collins Sr. and Cara Jones Collins. Her love for learning was solidified by her parents who strongly encouraged and instilled high educational standards in their children.
With this love for learning she would earn multiple degrees and more importantly give birth to Florida A&M University`s School of Business and Industry (SBI). Mobley served as dean of SBI for 39 years. With her unique model, she attracted high-ranking African American students throughout the country and gave them exposure to rigorous curricula, distinctive leadership and professional development.
On Sept. 29, Mobley died, but the celebration of her life proved that her legacy and vision is timeless.
When the clock struck noon, Bethel Missionary Baptist Choir rose to their feet and began to sing “Holy, Holy, Holy.” As her family processed to the front of the church, black shades adorned many faces to hide the pain and sadness.
After a selection by the choir, it was time for those who knew Mobley best to reflect on her impact in their lives.
“Sybil was a pace maker and thrived on innovation,” said Elizabeth Carr, Mobley`s longtime friend and neighbor of 61 years. “She was known for generating new ideas and her enthusiasm for getting things done was contagious.”
As the tributes continued, Karen Proudford spoke on behalf of the graduating class of 1982.
“I reviewed the program and I`d like to tweak if I might,” said Proudford. “It says that Doc had three children and it turns out that’s not quite right. Not only did Sybil Mobley have more children, she had them in just about every state in the country. The SBIans are from all over the country and we are her babies.”
She furthered her tribute by saying that Mobley was a “quintessential educator who knew that education transformed lives.”
After a few applauses and sniffles, five of her granddaughters paid tribute to their grandmother through song. When they finished singing “Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion it was time for Rev. R.B. Holmes Jr. to say some final words about Mobley.
“Who can find a virtuous woman? For her worth is far beyond rubies,” said Holmes as he quoted Proverbs 31:10 in effort to describe Mobley`s value to the nation.”
He continued by explaining that Mobley not only taught students how to be successful business personnel, but she also taught her “superstars” how to make something for themselves.
“That`s what she taught. Own something for yourself. Be the lender and not the borrower,” said Holmes.
With that the choir stood to sing “Every Praise.” As each member of the family prepared for the internment, those black shades that once served as a safety blanket could no longer stop the rest of the world from seeing their pain. It was time for them to say goodbye to a trailblazer, leader and more importantly, a virtuous woman.