Columnist is recognized
PEARLINE THOMPSON, a Messenger correspondent, received a special congressional commendation during the King Day church service at Bethlehem A.M.E. Church.
The special recognition from Second District Congressman Sanford Bishop was presented on his behalf by his representative Wallace Sholar.
Mrs. Thompson was spotlighted in “recognition of outstanding achievement, service and public distinction.”
In addition to writing The Ebony News column weekly for The Cairo Messenger for the past 15 years, Mrs. Thompson retired from Thomas County Schools in 1997 after working 35 years in public education.
She began her career in education as a school librarian at Magnolia School and eventually retired from Central Middle School as librarian.
The Pine Apple, Alabama, native moved to Cairo in 1962 and married her late husband, Ezekiel Thompson, in 1964. The two met at a basketball game at her school in Thomasville. Mr. Thompson, a veteran math teacher at Cairo High School, passed away in 1996.
The couple raised two children, Robert of Thomasville, and Paula, who lives here.
Mrs. Thompson is an active member of her community and is involved in Semper Fidelis, Morningstar Kiwanis Club and Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church.
She is also a member of American Legion Post 544 Auxiliary, the Delta Sigman Theta Sorority and the Household of Ruth.
The special honoree graduated from Alabama State College and Atlanta University.
“It was a complete surprise. A very pleasant surprise,” Mrs. Thompson said as she reflected on last Monday night’s presentation.
