Cora Ann Pair Thomas facts for kids
Cora Ann Pair Thomas (1875-1952) was an American woman who dedicated her life to helping others. She worked as a Baptist missionary in Liberia, a country in West Africa. She served there from 1909 until she passed away in 1952.
Cora Ann Pair Thomas is also known as the grandmother of the famous playwright and author Cori Thomas. She was also the mother of David M. Thomas, who later became an ambassador for Liberia.
Early Life and Education
Cora Ann Pair was born on September 8, 1875. Her hometown was Knightdale, North Carolina, in the United States.
She was a dedicated student. In 1895, she graduated from Shaw University. After college, she worked as a principal at an orphanage in Oxford, North Carolina. This job showed her passion for helping children.
In 1904, Cora decided to continue her education. She went to Fisk University to get special training. This training prepared her for missionary work. Missionaries are people who travel to other places to share their beliefs and help communities.
Life as a Missionary in Liberia
In 1908, Cora Ann Pair married Reverend William Henry Thomas. Later that same year, the couple traveled to Brewerville, Liberia. They went there to work with the Lott Carey Convention (LCC). This organization supports missionary efforts around the world.
While William Thomas managed the Brewerville mission, Cora taught at the Lott Carey Mission School. She helped educate many children in Liberia. William became a citizen of Liberia, but Cora chose to keep her American citizenship.
Cora and William worked together for 33 years. They were a team until William passed away in 1942. After her husband's death, Cora took over his role. She became the superintendent of the Brewerville mission. This meant she was in charge of all its activities.
In 1946, Cora had to leave Liberia because she was not feeling well. She returned to the country in 1951 with a group of people on a special trip.
Later Years and Legacy
Cora Ann Pair Thomas died on May 10, 1952. She passed away from malaria in Brewerville, Liberia. She spent most of her adult life helping the people of Liberia. Her work as a missionary and educator left a lasting impact on the community she served.