More Than Rubies: The Life and Legacy of Evelyn Dolores Ulmer Henry

The life of Evelyn Dolores Ulmer Henry was a radiant testament to faith, education, and enduring love. In the heart of Winnsboro, South Carolina, Evelyn Dolores Ulmer Henry (August 14, 1931 – April 17, 2022) left a legacy as a transformative educator, mentor, and servant leader. She built bridges between past and future, blending her deep faith, fierce advocacy for equity, and love for education into a life that inspired generations.

Born to Reverend George Ulmer and educator Loretta Ayers Ulmer, Evelyn was raised in a home grounded in Christian values, educational excellence, and civic responsibility. After graduating with honors from Fairfield High School, she attended Barber Scotia College, where she graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Social Studies. It was there that her journey as a lifelong educator began.

Her professional life was deeply intertwined with her personal love story. Evelyn married Taft Henry, the love of her life and a decorated member of the 24th Infantry Regiment Combat Team—proudly known as the Buffalo Soldiers or "The Deuce Four." As Taft served his country, Evelyn stood as an educator and community leader wherever the Army assigned him. She taught in military education centers and American Dependent Schools, led Girl Scout troops, and served as President of the Protestant Women of Phillips Chapel.

Upon returning to Winnsboro after Taft's retirement, Evelyn began teaching third grade at McCrorey-Liston Elementary School. Her natural leadership and attention to detail quickly made her the trusted “goto” person for both staff and administration. In 1972, she was selected as Team Leader for the National Teacher Corps program—a federal initiative aimed at improving education in underserved communities. With the encouragement of mentor Dr. Wanda Breedlove, Evelyn earned her Master’s degree in Education from the University of South Carolina.

Breaking barriers, Evelyn became the first African American female principal in Fairfield County after the passage of Title IX. Her most defining fight came in advocating for the construction of a new McCrorey-Liston Elementary School—an effort she championed alongside her family and the community, refusing to let the students of rural Blair be treated as secondclass citizens. The successful completion and dedication of the new school was a triumphant moment of pride and validation for all involved.

Evelyn's influence extended beyond the classroom. A dedicated leader in Calvary Presbyterian Church (USA) and a committed member of community organizations, she served wherever needed —from Sunday School to the Eastern Star, from Boy Scouts to the Buffalo Soldiers Women’s Auxiliary.

Evelyn Dolores Ulmer Henry lived a life of profound service and impact. Together with her beloved Buffalo Soldier, she helped shape a community grounded in dignity, equality, and education—a legacy that continues to shine.