Thelma Mothershed Wair, one of the nine Black students who bravely integrated Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1957, has passed away at the age of 83. Her sister, Grace Davis, confirmed that Mothershed Wair died at a hospital in Little Rock due to complications from multiple sclerosis.
The integration of Central High School by the group known as the Little Rock Nine was a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement. Despite facing a hostile mob and resistance from Arkansas Governor Orval Faubus, the students persevered with the support of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who deployed the Army's 101st Airborne Division to ensure their safe entry into the school.
Mothershed Wair's determination and resilience were evident throughout her life. Despite the challenges she faced, including health issues from a young age, she pursued her education and earned a bachelor's degree in home economics education and a master's degree in guidance and counseling from Southern Illinois University.
After marrying Fred Wair in 1965, Mothershed Wair dedicated herself to a career in education, working as a home economics teacher and counselor in the East St. Louis school system for nearly three decades before retiring in 1994. She also contributed to her community by teaching survival skills for women at the American Red Cross.
Throughout her life, Mothershed Wair remained a fighter and an inspiration to many. Her legacy, along with that of the other members of the Little Rock Nine, was honored with a Congressional Gold Medal, which they donated to the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum in 2011.
Thelma Mothershed Wair's courage and commitment to equality will continue to inspire future generations as a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity.
