As we continue preserving the history surrounding Justice Thurgood Marshall’s life and legacy, we are continually reminded that behind every historic figure are the people who helped shape their values and purpose. For Justice Marshall, one of those greatest influences was his mother, Norma Arica Williams Marshall.
Among the many materials preserved in our family archives is a biographical sketch of Mrs. Norma Marshall — educator and mother of Justice Thurgood Marshall. This sketch appears in a 1956 banquet pamphlet honoring her, and reflects how she was viewed by her community during a career spanning more than three decades in Baltimore’s public schools. Her life, as recorded in this biographical sketch, reflects both professional devotion and deep community engagement.
Mrs. Norma Williams Marshall – Educator – Biographical Sketch
Born and reared in Baltimore, Maryland, Mrs. Norma Williams Marshall is a member of one of the oldest families in the city. Her mother was a member of the teaching profession while her father was a pioneer in the local business field.
Mrs. Marshall is a graduate of Coppin Normal School and has matriculated at Morgan State College and Columbia University. She has taught in the Baltimore School System for more than thirty years; retiring only when she felt that she could not give her best to the pupils in her charge. During this time, she has taught at Schools #112 and #140. Her many pupils remember with pride the warm, friendly, exacting nature of her teaching as well as the innumerable qualities of character she instilled in their developing personalities.
Besides being a member of St. James Episcopal Church, Mrs. Marshall has found time in her busy life to participate with the Lincoln Mothers and the Morgan State College Women’s Auxiliary.
She was for many years treasurer of the P.T.A. of School #140. She is the proud mother of two outstanding sons; Atty. Thurgood Marshall and Dr. Aubrey Marshall, and two grandsons.
The Faculties and administrators, with whom Mrs. Marshall has worked, are indeed fortunate to have had such a diligent and wonderful person in their midst.
