Miriam Fobes Summersell

In Loving Memory of Miriam Fobes Summersell

August 28, 1958 – July 13, 2025

Mimi, mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2025, at the age of 66, in her hometown of Gulf Breeze, Florida.

Born on August 28, 1958, to Robert and Thelma Fobes, Mimi Fobes grew up in a lively and loving household in Mobile, Alabama, surrounded by the joy and chaos of a large family.

A driven and dedicated student, Mimi earned her bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of South Alabama and later went on to receive her master’s degree in Business from Shippensburg University. Her passion for education led to a long and impactful career at the University of South Alabama, where she served for 27 years, retiring as the Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs. Her work helped shape the lives of countless students and colleagues, and she was deeply respected for her integrity, intelligence, and leadership.

Mimi is best remembered for her radiant spirit, infectious laughter, and boundless love for the people around her. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome, seen, and valued. Above all, the role she cherished most was being a mother. "Mom" was the title that brought her the greatest pride and joy, and she carried it with unwavering love and devotion.

She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, wisdom, and fierce love that will continue to live on through her family, friends, and all who were lucky enough to know her.

She is survived by her daughters, Michelle Marie Brown (Kim) and Rebecca Summersell Osborne (Kevin); her grandchildren, Ian, Cooper, Alanah, and Owen; and her siblings, Michael Joseph Fobes (Barbara), Dennis Paul Fobes (Leigh), Patrick James Fobes (Sharron), and Anne Fobes Brown. She is also survived by many cherished nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Wafer Fobes Sr. and Thelma Johnston Fobes; her aunt, Mary Elizabeth “Weffie” Johnston; and her brothers, Robert Wafer Fobes Jr., John “Jackie” Fobes, David Gray Fobes and his wife, Kim Stapleton Fobes.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 3, 2025, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Pat Fobes’ home, located at 321 Thorton Place, Mobile, AL 36609. The service will begin at 1:00 p.m., with visitation immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Veterans of Foreign Wars at: https://heroes.vfw.org/page/164091/donate/1?locale=en-US

Mimi was a gifted writer and poet, known for the depth and beauty of her words. Her writing carried a profound impact, resonating deeply with those who read it. The following is one of her cherished works.

Life and Death

By: Mimi Fobes Summersell

Life starts with a breath

And ends with death.

Some breathe easy, for others it's hard,

Some seem to escape unscathed, while others are visibly scarred.

No matter how many breaths you take,

The road you are on is determined by the choices you make. There will be a silent call,

Meant to guide you through it all.

It was with intent

That the signal was on vibrate when the message was sent.

It vibrates in your soul,

And you'd better listen to what you're told.

From the start, the signal's in sync with every beat of your heart— We all have a unique song that's ours alone to sing.

Getting the right rhythm is the most important thing.

In the beginning, the rhythm is slow and like a gentle wind,

It feels like butterfly kisses all over your skin.

This is what lures you in.

The longer you breathe, the harder the wind blows,

And faster and faster your song's tempo goes.

Now you can hear it—it roars in your ears,

But the air in your hair calms all your fears.

Rhythm and wind are approaching gale force—

Hold tight to your wheel and stay your course.

It doesn't matter how others measure success,

Stay true to the tune that beats in your chest.

When frustration sets in,

Go to where you can feel the wind,

And listen to your song within.

When your song reaches its crescendo and hurricane winds are starting to blow, You'll know it's time to go.

As abruptly as it starts, it ends—

You release your last breath

And melt into your own wind.