First Lady Jarrette Thomas, a proud native of Memphis, TN, has been a beacon of inspiration, service, and education throughout her life. She is the cherished only child of Beatrice Kimmons and Gerald Buford. First Lady Thomas embarked on her educational journey within the Memphis City Schools public school system, laying the foundation for her lifelong commitment to learning. She continued her academic pursuit at Mercer University in Macon, GA, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, with a minor in Women’s Studies.

The field of Women’s Studies resonated deeply with First Lady Jarrette, propelling her to delve even further into this empowering discipline. In 2004, her quest for knowledge led her to Baltimore, MD, where she pursued a Master of Science in Women’s Studies with a concentration in Women’s Health at Towson University. Her passion for women’s health and education found a tangible expression as she began her professional journey as a Reproductive Health Educator, marking the beginning of a lifelong commitment to education and healthcare.

Over the past 17 years, First Lady Jarrette has illuminated the path of education and healthcare through various roles and experiences. She has served as an Adjunct Professor in the Women’s Studies Department at Towson University, provided invaluable guidance to patients, families, and friends throughout the renal transplant process as a Transplant Assistant for the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UMPC) Central PA. Currently, First Lady Jarrette holds the esteemed position of Education Project Specialist for UPMC Central PA, where she plays a pivotal role in supervising medical students and Advanced Practice Provider students, guiding them on their journey to becoming medical providers.

First Lady Jarrette’s service extends far beyond the realm of healthcare and education. As a dedicated member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for over two decades, she exemplifies a lifelong commitment to service within her church and community. Within the church, First Lady Jarrette has served faithfully in various capacities, contributing her talents to the Music Ministry, Fine Arts Ministry, Women’s Ministry, and Vacation Bible School. She is also a member of the International Association of Ministers’ Wives and Ministers’ Widows Inc, where she has held both local and state offices.

In unity with her beloved husband, Rev. Dr. Walter Scott Thomas Jr., First Lady Jarrette has steadfastly supported and uplifted her family. Their union in holy matrimony in 2009 has been blessed with two beautiful children, Lillian Grace and Walter III. Lillian Grace and Walter III are true blessings.

First Lady Jarrette Thomas stands as a shining example of devotion and service. Her unwavering dedication to both her family and her community continues to inspire and empower all those who are fortunate enough to know her. First Lady Thomas truly strives to live her life by the lyrics, “If I can help somebody as I travel along, then my living shall not be in vain”.