Honorable Sheila Mobley McNeill

Sheila was born in Brunswick to parents Kenneth and Nora Mobley. She served as the Navy League’s 42nd national president from 2003-2005. Sheila led the Navy League in supporting the men and women of the sea services, educating the public about maritime issues and advocating for the needs of the sea services on Capitol Hill. She was also the first and only female national president in the organization’s 121-year history. 

Sheila held several key roles during her 58 years with the Navy League, including national vice president for legislative affairs, national director of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps, and member of the National Maritime Policy Committee. A legendary member of the Camden-Kings Bay Council, she took on challenging assignments and mentored future leaders with her extensive experience. 

McNeill’s contributions to the sea services and her community earned her numerous prestigious awards, including the Secretary of the Navy’s Distinguished, Superior and Meritorious Public Service medals, the United States Coast Guard’s Distinguished and Meritorious Public Service medals, and the U.S. Armed Forces Spirit of Hope Award. She was also the first female recipient of the Spanish Navy League’s highest honor, the Golden Anchor Award. 

Even outside of the Navy League, Sheila always put her nation’s needs before her own. She served as a Georgia state senator representing District 3 from January 2021 to January 2023, serving on multiple committees. Before running for office, she served as the vice chairman of the executive committee for the Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services, visiting 45 U.S. military installations worldwide. 

In addition to her professional achievements, Sheila was a devoted wife to Arlie McNeill, a Navy veteran, who passed away in 2023, and a loving mother and grandmother. Her legacy of service, leadership, and dedication will be remembered and celebrated by all who had the privilege to know her.  

In addition to her husband and parents, her brothers, Ricky, Brian and Kenny Mobley preceded her in death.

She is survived by her daughter, Leslie Manoukian (Richard); three grandchildren, Norah Houmard (Ty), Ryan McNeill and Blaire McNeill; two great-grandchildren, Rayne McNeill and Kylie Manoukian; a sister, Debbie Youngner (Larry); nieces and nephews, Larry Youngner Jr. (Christy), Greg Youngner (Angela) and Andi Screven (Lee). Several great nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.

Visitation will be held Sunday, August 11, 2024 from 3:00 to 4:00 pm at Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home. The funeral service will begin at 4:00 pm in the funeral home Chapel. A reception will follow. Burial at Chapel Park Cemetery will be private.

Active pallbearers will be the Coast Guard, Navy and Marines. Honorary pallbearers will be members of the General Assembly.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Sheila McNeill Memorial Fund to benefit Nora Houmard who is injured and facing long rehabilitation. Please make checks payable to Leslie Manoukian.

Condolences and remembrances may be shared at www.edomillerandsons.com. Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.