The first female lawyer elected to a judicial post in Missouri was given the R.A. Fulenwider Meritorious Community Service Award during the Jackson Chamber of Commerce and Jackson Industrial Development Authority banquet Thursday night in Jackson.

Marybelle Mueller, who was chosen for the award based on her credentials and community involvement, said she was grateful for the warmth and hospitality of Jackson's residents and businesses.

"I really am appreciative of the chamber recognizing me for what I did through the years," Mueller said. "I hope this inspires more women to do more for their community."

Early on in her career Mueller became a pioneer for women in the legal field after graduating from the University of Missouri-Columbia Law School in 1950. She was one of two women in the graduating class that year.

Mueller's judicial career began in 1955, when Gov. Phil Donnelly appointed her to fill a vacancy for magistrate judge. Mueller served in the position until 1962, when she opted not to seek re-election so she could stay at home with her five children.

Mueller returned to the bench in 1974, when she was elected as Cape Girardeau County associate circuit judge in 1974 and served in that post until her retirement in 1994.

Throughout the years Mueller has been involved in a variety of community activities, ranging from the Daughters of the American Revolution to New McKendree United Methodist Church.

"I appreciate the time and effort everyone gives to Jackson," Mueller told the crowd of 280 people in attendance. "You all make this community what it is. Continue doing what you're doing."

The Fulenwider Award was one of several honors given out Thursday.

Busey Truck Equipment Co., a family-owned business that has been in Jackson since 1983, was honored as Industry of the Year.

Jones Drug Store and Overhead Door were both named Small Businesses of the Year. Jones Drug Store has been operating in Jackson since 1873 while Overhead Door has had a presence in the city since 1957.

Brian Gerau, who assumed the role as the chamber's executive director Nov. 1, said the evening was somewhat bittersweet. This was the first banquet without former executive director Marybeth Williams, who died of pneumonia April 27.

"This is one of those things you want to carry on in her spirit," Gerau said. "It's tough to fill her shoes.

"But you do it because it's what she would have wanted and it's best for the community to carry this on," he said. "She'd be proud."

bblackwell@semissourian.com

388-3628

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