Discover the complete story of Kathy Ambush, What Happened To Clarence Thomas First Wife. Learn about her age, bio, son Jamal Adeen Thomas, divorce, life after separation, net worth, and where she is today in 2025.
Quick Facts About Kathy Ambush
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kathy Grace Ambush |
| Date of Birth | June 6, 1950 |
| Age | 75 years old (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Worcester, Massachusetts, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Education | Business Administration and Sociology (Anna Maria College, Lincoln University) |
| Famous As | First wife of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas |
| Marriage to Clarence Thomas | 1971-1984 (13 years) |
| Children | Jamal Adeen Thomas (born February 15, 1973) |
| Current Husband | Douglas Allen Smith |
| Current Residence | Richmond, Virginia, USA |
| Estimated Net Worth | $100,000 – $3 million |
| Profession | Entrepreneur, Public Relations Professional |
Kathy Ambush Bio: Early Life and Background
Kathy Grace Ambush was born on June 6, 1950, in Worcester, Massachusetts, into a loving and supportive family. Her father, Nelson William Ambush, worked as a dedicated dental technician throughout his career, while her mother was Shigao Gladys Sato. Kathy grew up as one of seven children, alongside her siblings Stephen Ambush, Benjamin Ambush, Karen Thande, and June Ambush.
The Ambush family emphasized education and strong values, which played a crucial role in shaping Kathy’s character. After her mother’s passing in 1984, her father remarried Mary Estelle, and the union brought two step-siblings into Kathy’s life: Valerie Wilson and Sydney Schuyler.
Kathy attended Marion Central Catholic High School before pursuing higher education. She studied sociology at Anna Maria College from 1968 to 1970 and later earned a degree in Business Administration from Lincoln University in Pennsylvania. Her educational background laid the foundation for her future career in public relations and community engagement.
Kathy Ambush Age: How Old Is She Now?
As of 2025, Kathy Ambush is 75 years old. Born in 1950, she has lived through significant historical moments and personal transformations. Despite being in her mid-seventies, she maintains a private lifestyle away from public scrutiny, focusing on her personal well-being and family relationships.
Kathy Ambush Clarence Thomas Wife: The Beginning of Their Love Story
Kathy Ambush and Clarence Thomas first crossed paths in 1969 when both were college students. Clarence was attending the College of the Holy Cross in Massachusetts, while Kathy was studying at a nearby women’s college. Their mutual friends introduced them, and the connection was immediate.
After just one week of meeting, the young couple began dating. Their relationship blossomed over two years as they supported each other through their academic pursuits and shared dreams for the future. Both came from modest backgrounds and understood the value of hard work and determination.
On June 5, 1971, shortly after Clarence’s graduation, the couple exchanged vows at All Saints Episcopal Church in Worcester, Massachusetts. The intimate ceremony was attended by Clarence’s mother, grandmother, and aunt, though notably, his father was absent. It was a joyful occasion that marked the beginning of what they hoped would be a lifelong partnership.
Following their marriage, the newlyweds relocated to New Haven, Connecticut, where Clarence enrolled at Yale Law School. These early years were marked by financial struggles, as Clarence was a law student with limited income. Kathy supported her husband through these challenging times, demonstrating commitment and resilience.
Kathy Ambush Son: Meet Jamal Adeen Thomas
On February 15, 1973, Kathy and Clarence welcomed their only child, Jamal Adeen Thomas, at Yale New Haven Hospital in Connecticut. The arrival of their son brought immense joy to the young family. Clarence later recalled feeling a profound sense of love and responsibility when Jamal was born, despite initial fears about fatherhood.
As a mother, Kathy devoted herself to providing Jamal with a stable, loving home environment. She prioritized his education and emotional well-being, even as her marriage faced increasing difficulties. When the couple eventually separated, Kathy ensured that Jamal maintained a strong relationship with both parents.
Jamal’s Education and Career
Unlike his father who pursued law, Jamal Adeen Thomas chose a different path, establishing himself in the financial sector. He attended Bishop Ireton High School and Fork Union Military Academy before earning a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Business from Virginia Military Institute in 1996.
Throughout his professional career, Jamal has held prestigious positions at several financial institutions, including:
- Wells Fargo Advisors
- BB&T Scott & Stringfellow
- Wachovia Securities (as an options trader)
- John F. Van Der Hyde and Associates (currently serving as Director of Supervision)
Jamal has built an estimated net worth of approximately $2 million through his successful career in finance. He is also actively involved with The Fatherhood Foundation of Virginia, where he serves on the board of directors, helping men become better fathers and co-parents.
Jamal’s Personal Life
In 2016, Jamal married Sakina Karima Paige, a lawyer who works as a senior manager at Capital One. Together, they have a son named Judah Thomas. The family maintains a private life in Virginia, away from the media attention that often surrounds Clarence Thomas.
Despite his parents’ divorce, Jamal has maintained positive relationships with both his mother and father. He speaks fondly of both parents and has successfully navigated the complexities of having a famous father while building his own independent identity.
What Happened To Clarence Thomas First Wife: The Marriage Struggles
While the early years of Kathy and Clarence’s marriage showed promise, significant challenges emerged as time progressed. The couple faced multiple difficulties that eventually proved insurmountable:
Financial Hardships
During Clarence’s time at Yale Law School and in his early career, the family experienced severe financial stress. Clarence later admitted in his memoir that he often had to choose between eating at Burger King or taking the bus. The couple received eviction notices, struggled to pay loans, and couldn’t keep up with credit card payments. These financial pressures created tremendous strain on their relationship.
Alcohol Problems
Clarence Thomas has openly acknowledged having a drinking problem during the 1980s. According to reports, he would use student loan money to spend time at bars, and his alcohol consumption worsened over time. Former girlfriend Lillian McEwen, who had an affair with Clarence during his marriage to Kathy, confirmed witnessing his alcohol addiction firsthand.
The drinking issue became so severe that it poisoned the marriage, affecting both the couple’s relationship and their family life. Clarence eventually gave up drinking while working at the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, recognizing it was neither financially nor physically sustainable.
Infidelity
Perhaps the most damaging blow to the marriage was Clarence’s affair with Lillian McEwen, a Senate Judiciary Committee employee. McEwen later wrote about the affair in her memoir, detailing Thomas’s behavior during their relationship. She publicly discussed his problems with alcohol and pornography, painting a picture of a troubled marriage.
Clarence himself later expressed profound guilt about his actions, stating: “I left my wife and child. It was the worst thing I’ve done in my life, worse even than going back on my promise to Daddy that I would finish my seminary studies and become a priest. I still live with the guilt, and always will.”
Kathy Ambush Divorce: The End of a Marriage
After enduring years of difficulties, Kathy Ambush and Clarence Thomas separated in 1981, when their son Jamal was just eight years old. The separation marked the beginning of the end of their thirteen-year marriage.
The divorce was finalized in 1984, three years after their initial separation. During the divorce proceedings, Clarence was awarded sole custody of their teenage son Jamal. This arrangement allowed father and son to maintain a close relationship, though Jamal also remained connected to his mother.
The specific reasons for the divorce were never publicly detailed by either party, as both Kathy and Clarence chose to keep the circumstances private. However, the combination of financial stress, alcohol abuse, and infidelity clearly contributed to the marriage’s collapse.
Tragically, 1984 was a doubly difficult year for Kathy, as her mother, Shigao Gladys Sato, passed away the same year her divorce was finalized. Despite these challenges, Kathy handled the situation with remarkable grace and dignity.
Kathy’s Defense of Clarence
In a surprising turn of events, when Anita Hill accused Clarence Thomas of sexual harassment during his 1991 Supreme Court confirmation hearings, Kathy publicly defended her ex-husband. Despite their failed marriage and the pain she had endured, she stated that she did not believe the allegations against him. This display of support demonstrated Kathy’s character and her commitment to truth as she saw it, even when it involved her former spouse.
Kathy Ambush Net Worth: Financial Standing
Estimating Kathy Ambush’s exact net worth is challenging due to her extremely private lifestyle. Various sources report different figures, ranging from $100,000 to $3 million. This wealth has been accumulated through several sources:
- Divorce Settlement: Kathy received a monetary settlement and other assets from Clarence Thomas when their divorce was finalized in 1984.
- Career Earnings: Throughout her forty-year career in public relations and community engagement, Kathy held various positions that contributed to her financial stability.
- Entrepreneurial Ventures: She has been involved in entrepreneurship, including work as a Global Internet Entrepreneur and advocacy for healthy living through platforms like Amway.
While Kathy’s net worth is modest compared to some, she has achieved financial independence and security. For context, Clarence Thomas’s estimated net worth is approximately $1 million, with an annual salary as a Supreme Court Justice of $220,000.
Kathy Ambush Photos: A Private Life
Unlike many individuals connected to public figures, Kathy Ambush has successfully maintained an extremely low profile. Very few photographs of her are publicly available, especially from her life after the divorce.
The limited photos that do exist primarily come from her time married to Clarence Thomas in the 1970s and early 1980s. In these images, she appears as a young woman supporting her husband through his early career.
Kathy’s deliberate choice to avoid photography and media attention reflects her desire for privacy and normalcy. She has never sought fame or public recognition, preferring instead to live a quiet, dignified life away from the spotlight that constantly follows her ex-husband.
Kathy Ambush Family: Relationships and Connections
Biological Family
Kathy comes from a large family with strong bonds:
- Parents: Nelson William Ambush (father, dental technician) and Shigao Gladys Sato (mother, deceased 1984)
- Siblings: Stephen Ambush (Reverend), Benjamin Ambush (deceased), Karen Thande, and June Ambush
- Step-siblings: Valerie Wilson and Sydney Schuyler (from father’s second marriage to Mary Estelle)
- Paternal grandparents: Charles Gillette and Elizabeth Emma Ambush
- Paternal uncles and aunt: Benjamin, Charles, and Virginia Ambush (all deceased)
Her Own Family
- First husband: Clarence Thomas (married 1971-1984)
- Son: Jamal Adeen Thomas (born 1973)
- Second husband: Douglas Allen Smith
- Daughter-in-law: Sakina Karima Paige (Jamal’s wife)
- Grandson: Judah Thomas (Jamal’s son)
Kathy maintains close relationships with her son and grandson, though these connections are kept private. Family members describe her as devoted, supportive, and deeply caring.
Kathy Ambush Life After Divorce: Finding Peace and Happiness
Following her divorce from Clarence Thomas, Kathy Ambush embarked on a journey of personal rediscovery and healing. Rather than seeking attention or using her connection to a Supreme Court Justice for personal gain, she chose a path of quiet dignity.
Second Marriage to Douglas Allen Smith
After spending time healing and rebuilding her life, Kathy found love again with Douglas Allen Smith. The couple married, though the exact date of their wedding remains unknown to the public. Like Kathy, Douglas values privacy and stays away from media attention.
Together, Kathy and Douglas built a life in Richmond, Virginia, where they currently reside in the Chesterfield area. Reports indicate that they do not have children together, but they share a strong, stable relationship. Sadly, Douglas Allen Smith passed away in September 2023, marking another significant loss in Kathy’s life.
Professional Achievements
Throughout her post-divorce life, Kathy maintained an active and meaningful career spanning over four decades. Her professional accomplishments include:
Public Relations and Community Work:
- Community Relations Manager at BankBoston
- Work with the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC)
- Director at Massachusetts Advanced Studies Program at Milton Academy
- Involvement with the Immigration Learning Centre, Inc. (16-year tenure)
Entrepreneurship and Advocacy:
- Global Internet Entrepreneur
- Amway ambassador promoting healthy living and wellness
- Mentoring and coaching individuals in various capacities
Volunteer Work: Kathy has been recognized for her charitable contributions and commitment to making positive impacts in her community. She has worked with immigrant groups, helping them integrate and succeed in American society.
Maintaining Relationships
Despite their divorce, Kathy and Clarence Thomas reportedly maintained civil relations, particularly for the sake of their son. Their ability to co-exist peacefully speaks to Kathy’s maturity and focus on what matters most: family well-being.
Kathy is described by those who know her as gracious, kind, and resilient. She successfully created a fulfilling life that doesn’t depend on her famous ex-husband’s shadow. Her story demonstrates that it’s possible to move forward with dignity after experiencing public difficulties and personal heartbreak.
Current Life
As of 2025, at 75 years old, Kathy Ambush continues to live in Richmond, Virginia. Following her second husband’s death in 2023, she has likely focused even more on family connections, particularly with her son Jamal and grandson Judah.
She remains actively involved in entrepreneurship and advocacy for healthy living, though specific details of her current activities are closely guarded. Kathy occasionally volunteers and continues to make positive contributions to her community without seeking recognition.
Her decision to maintain privacy has been remarkably successful. Unlike many ex-spouses of famous individuals who write tell-all books or seek media attention, Kathy has steadfastly refused to capitalize on her connection to Clarence Thomas.
Kathy Ambush Nationality and Heritage
Kathy Ambush is an American citizen by birth. She was born and raised in Worcester, Massachusetts, and has lived in the United States throughout her entire life.
Ethnically, Kathy is African-American. Her multicultural background includes her mother, Shigao Gladys Sato, whose name suggests possible Japanese heritage, though specific details about this aspect of her family history are not widely publicized.
Kathy’s marriage to Clarence Thomas was a same-race marriage, as both are African-American. This contrasts with Clarence’s second marriage to Virginia “Ginni” Thomas, which is an interracial marriage—an interesting historical note given Clarence’s conservative judicial philosophy and his positions on various civil rights cases.
As an African-American woman who came of age during the Civil Rights era, Kathy experienced firsthand the social and political transformations of the 1960s and 1970s. Her educational achievements and professional success reflect the expanding opportunities for Black Americans during this period, even as significant barriers remained.
The Clarence Thomas Connection: Impact on Both Lives
The relationship between Kathy Ambush and Clarence Thomas significantly shaped both of their lives, though in very different ways.
Impact on Clarence Thomas
Kathy stood by Clarence during his formative years when he was struggling financially and professionally. She supported him through Yale Law School and his early career challenges. Their son Jamal became one of the most important relationships in Clarence’s life.
Clarence has acknowledged the pain he caused through his actions during the marriage. His admission of guilt regarding leaving his wife and child suggests genuine remorse. The experience of his first marriage’s failure may have influenced his later life choices and judicial philosophy, though he rarely discusses personal matters publicly.
Interestingly, Clarence recused himself from 17 Supreme Court cases involving his son Jamal due to conflicts of interest, demonstrating his continued paternal involvement and ethical awareness.
Impact on Kathy Ambush
For Kathy, the marriage to Clarence brought both joy (their son) and pain (financial stress, alcohol abuse, infidelity). However, rather than allowing these experiences to define her negatively, she emerged stronger and more independent.
The marriage taught her resilience, the importance of self-respect, and the value of privacy. She learned to rebuild her life on her own terms and found happiness in a second marriage. Most importantly, she maintained her dignity throughout the public scrutiny that came with being connected to a controversial Supreme Court Justice.
Their Son’s Perspective
Jamal Adeen Thomas has successfully navigated the complexities of having divorced parents, one of whom is a highly visible public figure. He maintains positive relationships with both parents and has built his own successful life independent of his father’s fame.
The fact that Jamal speaks positively about both parents suggests that Kathy and Clarence successfully prioritized their son’s well-being despite their personal differences. This speaks volumes about Kathy’s parenting and her ability to maintain mature boundaries.
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Lessons from Kathy Ambush’s Story
Kathy Ambush’s life offers several valuable lessons:
Dignity in Adversity
Despite experiencing a painful divorce, public scrutiny, and personal challenges, Kathy maintained her dignity. She never sought revenge, never wrote a tell-all book, and never tried to damage Clarence’s career for personal gain.
Privacy as Power
In an age of oversharing and constant media exposure, Kathy demonstrates that privacy can be a form of power. By controlling her narrative and limiting public access to her life, she maintained autonomy and peace.
Independence and Resilience
Rather than depending on her connection to a famous person, Kathy built her own career and identity. She became financially independent and emotionally strong, proving that life after a difficult marriage can be fulfilling.
The Power of Second Chances
Kathy’s successful second marriage to Douglas Allen Smith shows that it’s never too late to find happiness and love again. Her ability to trust and open her heart after being hurt demonstrates remarkable courage.
Putting Children First
Throughout the divorce and afterward, Kathy prioritized Jamal’s well-being over her own grievances. This selfless approach resulted in a well-adjusted son who loves both parents.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kathy Ambush
Where is Kathy Ambush now?
Kathy Ambush currently lives in Richmond, Virginia, where she resided with her second husband Douglas Allen Smith until his death in 2023.
Does Kathy Ambush have other children besides Jamal?
No, Jamal Adeen Thomas is Kathy’s only child. She did not have children with her second husband, Douglas Allen Smith.
What is Kathy Ambush doing now?
Kathy maintains a private life focused on entrepreneurship, healthy living advocacy, and family. She occasionally volunteers and stays involved in community work.
Did Kathy Ambush remarry?
Yes, after her divorce from Clarence Thomas, she married Douglas Allen Smith. They lived together in Richmond, Virginia until his passing in September 2023.
How old was Kathy Ambush when she married Clarence Thomas?
Kathy was 20 years old when she married Clarence Thomas in 1971. Clarence was 22 at the time.
What does Jamal Adeen Thomas do?
Jamal works as Director of Supervision at John F. Van Der Hyde and Associates, specializing in financial matters. He has extensive experience in the financial sector.
Are Kathy Ambush and Clarence Thomas still in contact?
While specific details are not public, reports suggest they maintain civil relations, particularly regarding their son. They are reportedly on good terms.
Conclusion: The Quiet Strength of Kathy Ambush
The story of Kathy Ambush is not one of fame, controversy, or public drama—though she certainly could have pursued that path. Instead, it’s a story of quiet strength, personal dignity, and the determination to live life on one’s own terms.
From her early days in Worcester, Massachusetts, through her marriage to a future Supreme Court Justice, the birth of her beloved son, a difficult divorce, and into her later years, Kathy has consistently chosen privacy, grace, and personal integrity over public attention.
While Clarence Thomas made history as the second African-American Supreme Court Justice, Kathy made her own history by showing that the ex-spouse of a powerful person doesn’t have to trade on that connection for relevance or financial gain. She built a career, found love again, raised a successful son, and created a meaningful life—all while staying true to herself.
Today, at 75 years old, Kathy Ambush remains an example of resilience and dignity. Her life reminds us that not every important story needs to be told loudly, and sometimes the most powerful legacy is the one lived quietly, with purpose and grace.
In a world obsessed with celebrity and public exposure, Kathy Ambush stands as a refreshing reminder that a life well-lived doesn’t require an audience—it simply requires authenticity, strength, and the courage to move forward no matter what challenges arise.
The story of Kathy Ambush continues to inspire those who value privacy, resilience, and the quiet pursuit of happiness over public acclaim.
