Christine King Farris was born on November 9, 1927, in Atlanta, Georgia. She grew up in a loving family, alongside her siblings, including her younger brother, Martin Luther King Jr. Farris was a bright student and excelled academically from a young age. She attended Spelman College, where she pursued her undergraduate studies. Later, she continued her education at Columbia University, where she further honed her academic skills.
After completing her education, Farris embarked on a successful career as an educator. She joined the faculty at Spelman College, where she shared her knowledge and expertise with students. Farris was known for her dedication to teaching and her passion for education. Throughout her career, she authored several educational books that became valuable resources for teachers and students alike.
In addition to her work in academia, Farris was actively involved in various organizations dedicated to promoting civil rights and social change. She was a member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), the International Reading Association, and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. Farris's commitment to social justice and equality was unwavering, and she played a significant role in advancing the cause of civil rights.
Farris's personal life was marked by both joy and tragedy. In 1960, she married Isaac Newton Farris, Sr., with whom she had two children. The Farris family experienced several devastating losses, including the tragic assassination of Farris's brother, Martin Luther King Jr., and the murder of their mother. Additionally, another one of Farris's brothers died in a drowning accident.
Despite the hardships she faced, Farris remained resilient and continued to advocate for justice and equality. In 2006, she attended the funeral of her sister-in-law, Coretta Scott King, paying tribute to her legacy and the contributions she made to the civil rights movement.
As Farris entered her later years, she remained committed to her work and her advocacy for social change. She co-chaired the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change, furthering her brother's mission of peace and equality. Farris's contributions to education and civil rights activism are enduring legacies that continue to inspire others to this day.
Christine King Farris passed away on September 16, 2021, leaving behind a legacy of courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication to social justice. Her impact on the civil rights movement and the field of education will be remembered for generations to come.