Phyllis (Davidson) Mullen

Millet

1922-2007

Description

Life and Work

Phyllis was born on May 17, 1922 in Warner, Alberta. She was the first of four children born to Alex and Greta Davidson. Phyllis grew up on a farm North West of Bowden with her sister Donna and two brothers Leonard and Raymond.

Phyllis earned her teaching certificate by attending normal school in Calgary. She started her career out in a one room school house located in the Wang District east of Millet. Her next job brought her to the Hillside District, south of Millet. This is where Phyllis met Robert “Bob” Mullen who she married on August 4, 1945. The couple had eight children: Catherine, Sharon, Dennis, Theresa, Brian, Patricia, Kathleen and Marilyn. Eventually grandchildren and even great grandchildren expanded the already large clan.

Despite her hectic duties as a mother, Phyllis always found time to be a devoted member of both the Calmar and Millet communities. Phyllis has been recognized as establishing the first Kindergarten in Millet. Phyllis was not raised Catholic, however, she was introduced to the church when she married Robert and quickly became a vital member of the congregation. She was a council member and taught many catechism classes at St Norbert’s Parish in Millet. She was a dependable bingo volunteer and was actively involved with the Millet museum helping to prepare exhibits. Phyllis loved to craft and therefore joined the Millet Arts and Crafts Guild, where she made many friends. Phyllis was able to transfer her knack of teaching into the guild, instructing anyone who was willing to learn.

Once Phyllis had tucked her children into bed, wrapped up her volunteering and the house was clean she somehow found time for her hobbies. Phyllis was capable of sewing anything and everything. She even gave each of her grandchildren a hand-made quillow. In addition to sewing, she did knitting, weaving, embroidery, quilting, rug hooking, ceramics/ pottery, macramé, milliner, and made Christmas decorations.

Phyllis’s family says she was the toughest, yet kindest person they ever met. She impacted the lives of many in the community. She will always be remembered for her caring and loving nature, her teaching abilities and of course, her crafts.


Associated Member Museum: Millet and District Museum and Archives