Corinne Austin Thomas was born in Rowan County on May 28, 1907. Price High School was the first school in Salisbury to offer secondary education to blacks, and in 1924 Corinne Austin was the very first graduate of Price. She then attended Hampton Institute in Virginia, completed her bachelors degree at Livingstone College and earned a masters in library science.
Corinne spent some time in New York working as a domestic employee. Although she knew this was an honest way to make a living, she also knew it was not her calling. She wrote to the principal of a school in her hometown and requested a job.
After receiving a favorable response, she moved back to Salisbury. That ended life in the big city for her and was the beginning of her touching the lives of so many young people. She influenced children as a teacher and librarian for 30- plus years, retiring in 1972.
Many young people were guided, supported, and pushed in their educational endeavors by Corinne Thomas. She said education was always very, very important in her life and the lives of those around her. Although she was never a biological mother, she was certainly a mother figure to many and was revered and respected.
It’s rare to see a 94-year old lady who still lives alone and attracts the company of all ages, from 20 to 90. Rarely did I stop by her home without meeting someone whose life she had influenced.
Corinne went to the hospital on Feb. 15 and left us the next day, Feb. 16.
— Elaine C. Howle
Salisbury
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