Shirley Prater Mull, age 87, of Mobile, Alabama passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 21, 2025. She was born to William Prater and Thelma (Prater) Tinsley on May 10,1937 in Greenville, South Carolina.
Shirley had a distinguished career, beginning as Secretary to the Administrator at Mobile General Hospital. Her dedication and professionalism were recognized when she was named Secretary of the Year by the local chapter of the National Secretaries Association. She also made history as the first woman to join the Junior Achievement Board of Directors. As a proud member of the National Secretaries Association, she served as President of the Alabama Division and earned the title of Certified Professional Secretary.
Shirley was a passionate entrepreneur, owning and operating Don Lu's Dress Shop in Mobile from 1977 to 1992. She also served as the President of the Mobile Medical Museum, where she published the book "300 Years of Mobile Medical History", showcasing her love for history and research.
Her adventurous spirit led her to follow her husband's career to Poland and France, where she and her family traveled across Europe, creating lasting memories. After returning to Mobile, she cherished spending time with family and friends at their condo on Dauphin Island.
Shirley was a proud member of the Bienville Club and cherished the tradition of Mardi Gras. A well-trained pianist and organist, she also had a love for music that she carried throughout her life. She had a passion for antiques and was an antique dealer at Antiques at the Loop. She possessed an extensive knowledge in silver, crystal, china, and antique furniture, and was known for her keen eye for beautiful treasures. An enthusiastic genealogist, Shirley was dedicated to tracing her family lineage and was always eager to help others uncover their own ancestral histories.
Shirley is survived by her husband of 70 years, Keith Mull; her son, David (Angela) Mull; grandchildren, Elizabeth (Nick) Hogenkamp, Christopher (Cami) Mull, Caroline Mull and her great granddaughter, Mary Emmaline Hogenkamp.
Shirley was preceded in death by her daughter, Phyllis Mull Creel; mother, Thelma Tinsley; stepfather, Robert Tinsley and her father, William Prater; dear friends Beatrice "Bea" King and Yvonne "Honey" Mauldin and many family members and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, beginning at 11:00am at Trinity Episcopal Church, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the William F. Green State Veterans Home: 300 Faulkner Drive, Bay Minette, AL 36507.
