Thomas Jefferson Ingram, better known as T.J., was born November 22, 1930.
His father was Rev. Thomas Jefferson Ingram, and his mom was Mrs. Aquila Ingram. He grew up in what was known as the “Gary Tap Community.”
He attended the New Salem School in Gary and graduated from Womack High School in Longview. He received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in History and his MEd from Bishop College in Marshall. T.J. served his country in the United States Army.
Ingram joined the staff at Turner High 1952-1953 as a history teacher. Having taught several years in the West Memphis Tennessee School District; he returned to Turner and helped Arzie Sanders as the Assistant Principal for Turner Elementary School in 1959 and afterwards became the principal.
As an active member of the Shady Grove Baptist Church in Gary, he served as Superintendent of Sunday School and President of the Senior Choir. T.J. was a member of the 100 Men of East Texas Club, the NAACP, and the Democratic Club of Panola County. Ingram served as Vice President of United Food and Commercial Workers Union for many years. He was a person who campaigned to bring about political and social change in Panola County and surrounding areas.
He has two daughters, Clarinda Collins and Sagay Ingram. His legacy continues with his daughter Clarinda Collins, Principal at Baker Koonce Intermediate School.