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Spelman Remembers Christine King Farris

(September 11, 1927 – June 29, 2023)

Spelman College Celebrates Christine King Farris

Spelman College invites you to pay tribute to the remarkable life and enduring legacy of Christine King Farris, C’48, an esteemed alumna whose unwavering dedication to justice and equality shaped the course of history. With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to a true beacon of inspiration, who peacefully passed away on June 29, 2023.

Farris was not just a witness to the transformative events of the civil rights movement but an active participant, an advocate for change, and a guiding light for future generations. As the elder sister of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., her influence extended far beyond familial ties, becoming an integral part of the movement that sought to dismantle systemic racism and promote the inherent dignity of all humanity.

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Love Notes From the Spelman Community

More reflections added daily.

One

She ALWAYS said her name in full and measured tones, giving emphasis, Dr. Christine King Farris, when you saw or heard her around campus. Although I did not have her as a professor, her presence was seen and felt all over the AU Center. I heard she was just as exacting with her students. Her contributions to our institution awere immeasurable; she will be missed.

Marjorie Whigham-Desir

Professor Farris was living history at Spelman. Coming from Brooklyn, New York and learning that my professor was the sister of one of the greatest civil rights leaders and that I was able to learn from her was a sacred blessing. After being in her class, I learned that she was not only an educator but an activist herself.

Latriecia Brown C’2008

Everyday she displayed poise, grace, and her style . . . Impeccable. She had to be the best dressed professor on campus :-). But above all, her expectation of excellence from us and nothing less was a true testament of her love and dedication to her students. I am so grateful for her life and I know her legacy will live on forever. To the family, my deepest condolences and sincerest prayers of comfort and peace.

Back when the monthly faculty meetings were held in 106 Giles, our seats faced the two doors of the entrance. Dr. Farris always arrived "fashionably late," and she was always a fashion icon! From her earrings to her shoes, everything was beautiful and elegant. I always admired her gorgeous outfits! I served on numerous committees with Dr. Farris. She was consistently astute and valuable in her contributions to the discussions. When events required faculty to participate wearing cap & gown, Dr. Farris was part of the "fashion police" (along with one of her 3 Musketeers, Dr. LaConyea Butler). Dr. Farris carefully arranged my hood and helped me to look dignified. Her quiet, elegant, thoughtful, and careful contributions to the faculty at Spelman are forever etched into my memory. I am grateful to have been her faculty colleague and to have witnessed some of the honors and celebrations she has received.

Donna Akiba Sullivan Harper

I am sincerely Blessed to have had Sis. Dr. Farris touch my life. I am grateful for her wisdom and accessibility. We mourn but not like those who have no Hope which we have to Jesus Christ. Farewell . . . .

Bobby L. Fuse, Jr. '74

I'm so sorry for your loss. My prayers and condolences to the King Farris family during their time of bereavement. Peace and Love!

Officer J. Williams (Spelman Public Safety)

You will be missed, Professor Christine King Farris. You were an excellent professor and your class was one of a kind. Thank you for including me in Dr. King’s tribute while at Spelman and for telling us the world is a mix salad not a melting pot. I will forever be your chatbox!

Rachel ‘Wilfred’ Briggs C’2006

As a South African, I am happy that you sharing information about MLK siblings‘ contribution. Keep it Up!

Anonymous

This was a beautiful tribute to her life and contributions. We as a people must listen and learn. Our people struggle because we don’t support each other like they did when they were trying to reach equality. We still must fight a good fight to support Black people. … not to fight against each other. We don’t have to fight all the days of our life. We/ me as a Black woman would like peace on earth not to have to wait until I am buried. Don’t forget where we came from because there are still some people that don’t want to see progression.😞 Sad to know.. I’m thankful that she fought as she did, but Black people must embrace freedom and let it ring..🙏🙏🙂

Zena R. Green

My sincere condolences to the King/Farris family. You were definitely the real meaning of a TRUE BLUE Spelman Sister and oh, so sweet Soror. I thank you for everything! 💙💕💚

Kanika Stanley Battle, C’99

It was an honor and pleasure to work with Christine King Farris at Spelman College. I was introduced to her as a child. My mother grew up in the same community and made sure that when I entered Spelman as a student I made sure she knew who I was.

As a student I loved watching her style which was always distinguished. She was a "fashionista" (smile) before we even knew the term. When I returned to Spelman College as an employee, I could always depend on Ms. Farris to be encouraging, supportive and cooperative. She loved her students and the important work she did as leader of the Learning Resources Center. Christine King Farris epitomized what it meant to distinguish oneself as a Spelman women. Her mark on the institution lives on for ever. Her spirit lives on.

Cynthia Neal Spence
Two

Dr. Farris was a long-standing faculty member when I became chair of the Teacher Education Program. When I think of Dr. Farris, the following attributes come to mind: gracious, diplomatic, professional, considerate, elegant, stylish, committed to social justice, and resilient in the face of adversity. She truly embodied the essence of a Spelman woman. She significantly impacted the Spelman community, this nation, and the world. It was an important event in my life to be able to work with Dr. Farris. I will forever cherish my fond memories of her and express my deepest sympathy to her family.

Francesina R. Jackson, Ph.D., Retired, Professor and Chair of the Teacher Education Program Principal Investigator of the First in the World Project Director of the Student Success Program

Thank you Professor Christine King Farris. With so many new and unexpected changes in my first few days, months and freshman year at Spelman College in 1980, your classroom was a calm place but you were serious for all of your students to learn and soar. Your presence on campus is etched in history overall. I thank you for pouring so many years in education for all students at Spelman. I thank God that I entered The Front Gate and graduated on time in 1984 (36 years after you - Class of 1948) and that you still shaped my learning and matriculation at our beloved alma mater.

Twelve years after my graduation in 1996, I would reconnect with you as a member of Ebenezer Baptist Church and work with you through the Women’s Day ministries. And then three more years later in 1999, I found myself working with you on preparing students to deliver the Message of Commemoration during the annual MLK, Jr. Commemorative Service in Ebenezer Baptist Church, Heritage Sanctuary and later in Ebenezer Baptist Church, Horizon Sanctuary.

You counseled me so many times when interpreting Dr. King’s historic speeches and connecting historical significance. You have been a “quiet strength” in so many rooms and places from Spelman College, Ebenezer Baptist Church and The King Center. It has been an honor to hear and witness your leadership ideas to fulfill the work of your brother, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

It was a blessing to sing “Hosanna! Hosanna!” with you on Palm Sunday at Ebenezer Baptist Church. You made your triumphal entry in the presence of God on June 29, 2023. Although you shared your time, tithes and talents for over five decades with all of us, we all felt special in your presence.

For the gifts and blessings that you poured and shared, I thank God for you. Rest in power, Queen Mother!

Connie Smith-Lindsey

Thank you for being my gifted instructor and my dear mentor! Rest-In-Heavenly Peace!

Ojetta Pearson C’82, and Family

I am sincerely Blessed to have had Sis. Dr. Farris touch my life. I am grateful for her wisdom and accessibility. We mourn but not like those who have no Hope which we have to Jesus Christ. Farewell...

Bobby L. Fuse, Jr. C’74

When I worked at Spelman as the senior buyer for the College, I remember Mrs. Christine King Ferris always being so nice to me. She always seemed concerned about my well being. She was a very nice lady! I was always honored to be in her presence because of who she was — Dr. Martin Luther King’s sister. I thank God that our paths crossed. I wish her family only the best during this difficult time.

Brent Bailey
Three

I'm so sorry for your loss. My prayers and condolences to the King Farris family during their time of bereavement. Peace and Love!

Officer J. Williams (Spelman Public Safety)

You will be missed Professor Christine King Farris. You were an excellent professor and your class was one of a kind. Thank you for including me in Dr. King’s tribute while at Spelman and for telling us the world is a mix salad not a melting pot. I will forever be your chatbox!

Rachel ‘Wilfred’ Briggs C’2006

As a South African, I am happy that you sharing information about MLK siblings contribution. Keep It Up!

Anonymous

This was a beautiful tribute to her life and contributions. We as a people must listen and learn. Our people struggle cause we don’t support each other like they did when they were trying to reach equality. We still must fight a good fight to support Black people. … not to fight against each other. We don’t have to fight all the days of our lives. We/ me as a Black woman would like peace on earth not to have to wait till I am buried.

Don’t forget where we came from because there are still some people who don’t want to see progression.😞 It’s sad to know. It’s good that she fought as she did but Blacks must must embrace freedom and let it ring. 🙏🙏🙂

Zena R. Green

My sincere condolences to the King/Farris family. You were definitely the real meaning of a TRUE BLUE Spelman Sister and oh so sweet soror. I thank you for everything! 💙💕💚

Kanika Stanley Battle C’99

It was an honor and pleasure to work with Christine King Farris at Spelman College. I was introduced to her as a child. My mother grew up in the same community and I made sure when I entered Spelman as a student I made sure she knew who I was. As a student I loved watching her style which was always distinguished.

She was a "fashionista" (smile) before we even knew the term. When I returned to Spelman College as an employee, I could always depend on Ms. Farris to be encouraging, supportive and cooperative. She loved her students and the important work she did as leader of the Learning Resources Center. Christine King Farris epitomized what it meant to distinguish oneself as a Spelman women. Her mark on the institution lives on for ever. Her spirit lives on.

Cynthia Neal Spence

Thank you, Professor Christine King Farris. With so many new and unexpected changes in my first few days, months and freshman year at Spelman College in 1980, your classroom was calm place but you were serious for all of your students to learn and soar. Your presence on campus is etched in history overall. I thank you for pouring so many years in education for all students at Spelman. I thank God that I entered The Front Gate and graduated on time in 1984 (36 years after you - Class of 1948) and that you still shaped my learning and matriculation at our beloved alma mater.

Twelve years later in 1996, I would reconnect with you as a member of Ebenezer Baptist Church and work with you through the Women’s Day ministries. Then three more years later in 1999, I found myself working with you on preparing students to deliver the Message of Commemoration during the annual MLK, Jr. Commemorative Service in Ebenezer Baptist Church, Heritage Sanctuary and later in Ebenezer Baptist Church, Horizon Sanctuary. You counseled me so many times when interpreting Dr. King’s historic speeches and connecting historical significance. You have been a “quiet strength” in so many rooms and places from Spelman College, Ebenezer Baptist Church and The King Center.

It has been an honor to hear and witness your leadership ideas to fulfill the work of your brother, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. It was a blessing to sing “Hosanna! Hosanna!” with you on Palm Sunday at Ebenezer Baptist Church. You made your triumphal entry in the presence of God on June 29, 2023. Although you shared your time, tithes and talents for over five decades with all of us, we all felt special in your presence. For the gifts and blessings that you poured and shared, I thank God for you.

Rest in power, Queen Mother!

Connie Smith-Lindsey
Four

Thank you for being my gifted instructor and my dear mentor! Rest-In-Heavenly Peace!

Ojetta Pearson C’82 and Family

Professor Farris Was my professor for Corrective Reading at Spelman College. I was so surprised when I had to take the course for zero credit. The next semester I had to take Developmental Reading — that course was three credits. Professor Farris was a remarkable woman RIH.

Faith Shepard

I offer deepest condolences to the family and friends of Professor Christine King Farris. Though I did not have the pleasure of knowing her, six of my family members are Spelman alumnae, beginning with my late aunt, Malissa Kilgore Briley, C'42. A grand niece hopes to attend in Fall 2023. I did have the pleasure of knowing Daddy King, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Mrs. Coretta Scott King because of the relationship that began with them and my father, the late Rev. Dr. Thomas Kilgore Jr., when he was a Morehouse College student, C'35.

May God comfort her Spelman family, as well.

The Reverend Dr. Jini Kilgore Cockroft

In 1967, I received mentoring from Professor Christine King Farris. She holds a special place in my heart. I offer my condolence to her family and to the Spelman College community.

Sarah Merritt Finley

Thank you, Professor Christine King Farris for your wonderful reflections during class time, your care for us as your students, the gentleness of your spirit, your smile, elegance and kindness. May you find rest, faithful servant.

Vaneisa Davis Benjamin

I met Ms. Farris when I was five years old . She taught at my school, W.H. Crogman. I was impressed by her wide smile and her very stylish clothes — Always! She was nice to me. We kept a knowing between us. When I came to Spelman, she was there. When she lost her Beloveds, I was there. When I received my honorary Doctorate from Spelman, she was there smiling with reminiscences.

We have lost a strong tree but the fruit of her being here remains. Christine King Farris lives in every place she walked. I will surely miss her. I extend the prayers of my entire family in sincere condolences to the Farris & King Family.

Love, LaTanya & Samuel L. Jackson
Five

Soft-spoken but impactful, Mrs. Farris was such a delight to know. I have very fond memories during my time managing the Washington Office of the MLK, Jr. Federal Holiday Commission. My deepest condolences to the Farris and King families.

Madeline Y. Lawson

Professor Willie Christine King Farris was a master teacher who was regal and a wonderful influence on my life and so many of my Spelman sisters. I found it fascinating to know her as an educator/professor who worked tirelessly at Spelman and in the world to uplift women, men and children. She filled the roles of a loving daughter and wife, wonderful mother and grandmother, supportive sister, aunt, friend, colleague and more for 95 years of life. She was truly blessed.

Professor King Farris was a role model for all who knew her. She was a lady of sheer elegance, poised, proud, and whose character was eminent in forging the name of her famous family with dignity throughout the world. I am so honored and happy that I had the opportunity to have her as my professor and to return to Spelman for several reunions and greet her fondly each time I returned.

She was "True Blue" — the ultimate Spelman Woman. She is now a "beacon of heavenly light" undaunted by the fight of life. She has done so many great things and has certainly earned the right to hear the words, "well done" thou good and faithful servant. We will miss her radiant spirit and warm smile. May God grant her family and all who loved her strength and sweet memories to sustain them through this difficult time and beyond. I am eternally grateful to have shared a portion of my life with her at Spelman College.

Dr. LaVerne L. McLaughlin, C'74

I am truly sorry for the loss of Professor Farris. I am honored to have known and conversed with her occasionally. I pray blessings of peace and strength for her family and all who loved her. May she rest in eternal peace.

Ada Jackson

Professor King was one of my favorite professors. I ran into her at a convention a few years ago and told her I was a former student. I also told her I sometimes could be a lazy student but she would not accept that and made me work. Professor Farris instilled the importance of hard work, character and commitment to your craft. For that I thank her.

We were fortunate enough to have the same reunion year cycle. I will miss seeing her at the reunions. May God comfort the family and thank you for sharing her with so many Spelmanites and others.

Carol Evans

Professor Farris was my freshman adviser and reading teacher. We all laugh because she told all of us who thought we could read that we “ Could not read.” We soon learned that we “could not read” and after taking her class I could read. I am forever grateful for the lessons she taught as those skills are ones I use to this day. She was a true role model for us as young women coming to Spelman from so far away from home.

Verbena Brown Cummings
Six

Professor Farris was a fashion icon! The faculty meetings used to be held in Giles 106 with desks facing the two entry doors. Professor Farris would always made a spectacular entrance, with matching shoes and handbag, lovely earrings, and a wonderful outfit.

She and Dr. LaConya Butler used to monitor faculty attire at Founders Day, Baccalaureate, and Commencement, to make sure our hoods were hanging properly and our tassels were on the proper side of our caps. She headed the committee to select recipients of Presidential Awards, and I remember the special attention she gave my academic attire at commencement of 1995, because SHE knew I was going to be called to the stage as a recipient of the Presidential Faculty Award for Faculty Achievement.

I served on several committees with her. She was always attentive and provided valuable input. I remember one Sunday in June 2011 or 2012, maybe, when some of our Mellon Fellows from the University of the Western Cape (in Cape Town, South Africa) attended Ebenezer. She graciously met and posed for photos with them after church. Professor Farris was a dignified, regal woman who added value everywhere she went. I am grateful for the time I spent in her presence. She will be remembered and cherished. Deepest condolences to Angela, Farris, and all the rest of the family and friends.

Donna Akiba Sullivan Harper

May God bless and keep your enduring memory as a blessing to your beloved family, and our illustrious Spelman. Your transformative leadership will be cherished in the many organizations you chartered and led, along with the countless lives you touched through mentorship and friendship. Thank you!

Cyreena Boston Ashby, C’2002

Your warm smile and loving embrace has left an indelible imprint upon my heart. I love you, Queen.💙💙💙

Lydia Pace

We shared the same reunion schedule so l always had the chance to see her on campus. I remember when she was a Golden Girl l went up to her and told her how good she looked and that l hoped to look half as good at her age. She just gave me that regal smile. I will miss that smile. Thank you, Professor Farris.

Vanessa BARDWELL Gibson

When I arrived at Spelman College, I considered myself to be an excellent reader, being a lover of the written word. After undergoing a series of required tests for freshman, I learned I would be in a reading class taught by Professor Christine King Farris. I was devastated!

In my mind, being in this course meant I was not a good reader. After being in Professor Farris’ class, I gained greater reading comprehension and skills that have enhanced diverse abilities. What’s especially touching for me is Professor Christine King Farris was genuinely interested in my improving not only academically, but as a young lady with a world of possibilities!

Another instance I feel compelled to share is when I attended the Spelman College Alumnae breakfast brunch a few years back. My mother and aunts who didn’t have the opportunity to attend college were in attendance with me. They were like excited school girls, because one of my aunts had never stepped foot on a college campus. I introduced them to Professor Christine King Farris and Dr. LaConyea Butler, who were both so welcoming! We even took a picture together. My aunts recall that day fondly and often tell people how “nice and down to earth” both of the smart women were.

Miss you, Professor Christine King Farris! Thank you for being, classy, gracious and intelligent.

Sisterly,

Deirdre Haywood Rouse, C’84

Condolences with: *Respect *Love *Gratitude *4Ever Girl Power *Prayers *Peace *Blessings, and *Acknowledgement of Your Humble Contributions.. You Are Appreciated!

Dr. Paula Green Fielder
Seven

Professor Christine King Farris was a wonderful kindred spirit with a passion for uplifting those in her presence. I always felt better, as a human being, when she greeted me by my name. She was truly a PHENOMENAL WOMAN, and her remarkable legacy will remain forever throughout the world.

Gloria Knowles Bell, C'64

In loving memory of Professor Emerita Christine King Farris. Prayers for the family as you continue to trailblaze in the spirit of love and justice.

Arnita Welch, Spelman C’98

Christine King Farris was one of my first professors at Spelman. I was so touched by her, as a human being, that I felt compelled to share these words in her honor. She possessed all the character traits of a consummate professional. Her expertise in her subject matter, compassion, patience, and loving kindness, are just to name a few of the characteristics that made her a professor who you would never forget! More importantly, there was a peace about her that, definitely, surpassed all understanding!

March on, now, my Sister, your work will be felt eternally!

Jacqueline Beavers-Wiggs, C’69

Thank you, Professor Farris for your many years of dedication teaching Spelman students. You were a true blessing to many. You were informative, resourceful and kind. You were also impeccably dressed always. May your soul rest in eternal peace and power in the presence of the Lord. 💙🤍

W. Dorethea Morton Jackson, C’67

She was one of my Exceptional Professors. Always well groomed, professional and dignified. Truly a Woman and Lady of GRACE!

Lady King Farris, you will truly be missed and your work and treasures will be forever ringing in My LIFE! You have made an impact on many lives and in this world. Rest in Heaven and Peace Be with You My Sister and Professor.

Sebrenia Sneed-Farrell, C'83
Eight

Professor Emerita Christine King Farris’ life intensely reverberated throughout Spelman and worldwide communities, with her consistent and committed educational and civil rights actions that continue to affect so many people.

A memory moment: During a Spelman Training Session, to my honor and surprise, sitting with and next to me, was Professor Emerita Christine King Farris. I was totally in awe, while she was her fun, gracious, caring, and humble self. Professor Emerita Christine King Farris, we celebrate your life with much love, praise, and gratefulness.

Nancy Elizabeth Goler, C’2006

I want to express my sincere thanks and appreciation for Professor Christine King Farris' efforts to keep the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. alive, both with the King Center and her literary works. I remember Professor Farris being a presence and a force on the campus during my time at Spelman in the early to mid 1990s. She was always gracious and such an inspiration! I want to offer my deepest condolences to the family for their loss, and I will keep the family in prayer. May God accept all of Professor Farris' great work in service to humanity.

Aaliyah El-Amin, C'95

Professor Christine King Farris lived the life she taught so graciously about. I have fond memories of working closely with Professor Farris when I served as Spelman’s Provost and then as a professor in the Education Department. She was a true inspiration. She modeled integrity, kindness and care; she was a wonderful teacher and a dedicated scholar who was engaged with the work of making the world better. She was "True Blue.”

My sincere condolences to the family and the Spelman community.

Dr. Joyce King

I have such great memories of Professor Christine King Farris. She was my freshman reading teacher. I always admired her as a strong Black woman and teacher. It is an honor and a privilege to have been one of her students. In addition, Professor King Farris reunions with me and I wondered why this year, she wasn't there. Professor Christina King Farris will be truly missed. Her high regard for education will live forever. Thank you for impacting my life forty-four years ago at Spelman College.

Never Goodbye, but until we meet Again!

Mrs. Brustina Calhoun-Dillard, C’83

Professor Farris was a teacher who invested herself in the development and growth of her students. She pursued excellence and demanded it of her students, not by intimidation but inspiration. Those characteristics are a part of my foundation today. I am so grateful for the opportunity to be a recipient of her commitment to education.

Dr. Charlene E. Watkins, C’73

As a student in the Department of Education, I had many opportunities to talk to Professor Farris. She was always so kind and such an excellent mentor. She prepared us well to be teachers and was such a TREASURE/BLESSING to us all.

REST is PEACE, Beloved Sister💙

Kimberly Crowder Small, C’87

Thank you, Professor Christine Farris for being such a patient and caring professor who was so willing to share your rich history with us.

Rest well. My sister.💙💎

Carol D. Curry

My son Carl and I met Professor Christine King Farris at Publix on Cascade when he was in the 5th grade. She was so kind and loving and caring. She took the time to ask my son what grade he was in and a few other questions about his life. Mrs. Christine King Farris showed that she cared and she was so personable and kind and full of God's Grace and Love. Our condolences go out to her family.

BJI Melton

Professor Christine King Farris inspired me to persevere in a difficult environment.
Nine

I will always cherish my memories of you as my teacher at Spelman College. You were a shining star and so kind to me.

Rest in peace.

Shelia Holmes

Professor Farris is the fondest memory of my Spelman experience as an education major. I spent hours with her each week after class, just chatting, getting to know her, and making her laugh. I looked forward to every Wednesday afternoon and I’m eternally grateful for the time she selflessly shared with me. May her bravery, perseverance, and joy encourage us all to live life fully and hold our heads high during every season.

Professor Farris, you are eternally loved and cherished.

Amber-Joy, C’2010

What a great inspiration and source of uplift for all those who knew and worked with her. I still recall the many conversations I had with her as we often we met when we were either entering or leaving Giles Hall. A shining example of faculty excellence in the classroom and a reliable advocate for faculty governance as well. There was something noble about her presence which made all around her feel truly valued and worthy. How could there be a Spelman without her!

Romie Tribble

Thank you, Professor Farris for your scholarship and your caring instruction during my Freshman year. There were characteristics in your teaching that I incorporate in my professorship today. You loved what you did and it showed. Also, it was evident that you loved your students and visualized us doing great things — changing the world — in many ways. For this, we are grateful and will never forget your impact.

Cassandra Aline Jones, Ph.D., C’79

From the time I meet Sis. King Farris in the little white house classroom until now, she was the epitome of grace, steadfastness, humor and generosity.

My appreciation,

Bobby L. Fuse, Jr. 'C’74

May the peace of our Lord sustain us all. Written for ears now in heaven. Thank for your service and for being an inspiration of courage, faith and strength. Blessed!

Gerri Miles C’82

As she practiced non violence and developed it I am thankful to her ,life and work . I wasn't aware about her work ,as now I am .with her blessings love and care. My generation, next generation will learn and get inspired and will continue to bring that hope the light the care.

My sincere respect. Thank you.

Abhilash Sharma

Professor Christine Farris King, I thank and praise the Most High for the legacy of Grace and Poise that you left us. Rest well.

Pamela Franklin Stegall, C'2010
Ten

I entered Spelman College in 1967 and you taught me speed reading. I have been able to use those skills personally and in business. Thank you for your input in my life.When seeing you in person or on television, your grace and fortitude made me feel proud to have known you. May heaven rejoice as you join your beloved family of pioneers.

Veronica Smith

I loved, loved, loved Mrs. King-Farris. She taught us how to teach phonics and phonemic awareness among other things — a very classy Spelman Sister. God has called home a a true angel and I know she is up there teaching. My sincere condolences to the King-Farris Family

Dr. Darrell Stinchcomb, Morehouse College C’97

My heart burst with ambition to serve as an educator after taking Professor Christine King Farris’ Multicultural Education course. Twenty-eight years later, I am still doing what was in my heart — .supporting educational leadership, teaching and learning. Professor King Farris wrote a recommendation to Columbia's Teacher College for me. I was accepted but chose to follow a path into education via Teach for America. She was so supportive and truly encouraged my decision to teach. Professor King Farris is a part of my leadership story, and I will forever treasure the experience I had in her class.

May she rest in peace as her legacy continues.

Kettisha Jones, Ed.D.

Rest in peace, Literacy Warrior! You have fought the fight of Justice for children all over the world! Know that your work was not in vain.

Dr. Gwendolyn Battle Lavert

Those of us who grew up with Christine King Farris —- our “Chris,” “Sis King,” “Prof Doc,” —- knew the glories of Sunday morning: crinoline dresses with matching hats, tales of thrills and wonder by Daniel, Samson, David, Esther, Judith and Sheba. We owned the encyclopedia of world music,; could sing “This little light of mine,” “Just a closer walk,” “Gloria in excelsis Deo,” all four parts of the “Hallelujah Chorus” by heart before we were eight. Chris was the founding soloist of “Sweet little Jesus boy.” Before Jet or Essence or Ms magazine, before the famous declaration of Mari Evans, “I am a Black woman/look on me and be renewed,” Chris had modeled the very being. Like smoke rising from a smoldering, passionate fire, spreading the fragrance of comfort over a quiet Yoruba village, Chris prevails.

Eleanor W.Traylor

I was part of a small group of women who returned to college as an older woman (PEDS). Ms. Ferris, as my education professor, would invite me to her office to share her fond memories of family and life in Atlanta as a young woman. She helped me land my first teaching internship and I could go on. I will remember her for the remainder of my life.

Rest well, Mrs. Ferris 💕💚🙏🏽

Dr. Katrina Evans Minified

Professor King Farris was an amazing beam of light. As a former student of hers at Spelman, I feel honored to have had her. She was a servant leader to the community she lived in and beyond. I also feel extra blessed to have been her soror in the illustrious Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. for the last 21 years. Getting to know her and her daughter and of course her granddaughter, my little sister, Baby Farris (12MuPi Spr'17) personally has been a complete honor and blessing.

Rest well Professor King Farris, you have definitely done the Lord's work and will now get your reward. With Love,

Sisterly Soror Latosha (16MuPi Spr02)

Latosha Key McDade C'2004

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