Mary Womble Spruel

Sep 19, 2022

in 1890-1909 (Born), African Americans, Education, Museums and Libraries, Religious, Social Work, Civic and Philanthropy

1906-1988

Mary Womple Spruel was an early Black teacher, hired in 1945 (see Timeline, bottom of page here).

Mary was born and raised in Montclair and taught for a total of 48 years, mostly in Newark. She had a masters and doctorate of education from Rutgers.

Mary received the Essex County Distinguished Service Award from the Essex County Education Association in 1977.

Mary was also involved in many organizations. She was a delegate to the National Education Association, member of the Newark Curriculum Committee for Language Arts, legislative chairperson for Essex County and NJ State Education Association, selected delegate for the AARP NJ State Committee, member of the Exec Committee of the Alumni of Montclair State College, and secretary of the Retired Teachers Association and President of the Townswomen. She was also an extension worker for the NJ Organization for Colored Children, before teaching.

Mary was also the basileus of Phi Delta Kappa and secretary of the Board at the Newark Day Center.

Mary was elected Warden of Trinity Protestant Episcopal Church, the first woman to serve in this capacity, as well as a member of their Executive Committee, and president of the St. Ann’s Guild. She received the Absalom Jones Award from the Union of Black Episcopalians in 1982.