Who Is Kathy Ambush? The Untold Story of Clarence Thomas’s First Wife

Have you ever wondered about the woman who was once married to a U.S. Supreme Court Justice? Her name is Kathy Ambush, and she’s not just the former wife of Clarence Thomas—she’s also a strong, independent woman with her own story.

Even though Clarence Thomas is one of the most powerful legal figures in the United States, Kathy Ambush has stayed quiet and private. But behind that quiet life is a journey full of education, career success, and personal strength.

In this article, we’ll learn who Kathy Ambush really is, where she comes from, what she does, and how her life has unfolded—from marriage and motherhood to her peaceful life today.

Kathy Ambush Quick Bio

Who Is Kathy Ambush?

Kathy Ambush is best known as the first wife of Clarence Thomas, who has been serving on the U.S. Supreme Court since 1991. But Kathy’s life is about more than just that connection.

She is an entrepreneur, a former public relations professional, and a mother. She has worked in many fields, including politics, education, and community service. Even after her marriage ended, she built a peaceful and successful life on her own terms.

While she never chased fame, Kathy Ambush became a public figure simply because of who she was married to. But over time, she chose to step away from the spotlight and focus on her own path.

Kathy Ambush’s Early Life and Family

Kathy Ambush was born on June 6, 1950, in Worcester, Massachusetts. She comes from a warm and hardworking family. Her father, Nelson William Ambush, worked as a dental technician. He passed away in 2012 at the age of 96. Her mother, Shigao Gladys Sato, died in 1984 at the age of 67.

Kathy didn’t grow up alone. She had a big family, with four siblings—Benjamin, Reverend Stephen, June, and Karen Thande—plus two half-siblings, Sydney Schuyler and Valarie Wilson, from her father’s second marriage.

Her family background is African-American with mixed heritage, which gave her a unique cultural upbringing. She grew up in a time when things were not always easy for women of color, but Kathy’s story shows she never let that stop her.

How Old Is Kathy Ambush Now?

As of 2025, Kathy Ambush is 75 years old. She was born under the Gemini zodiac sign, which is often linked to people who are smart, curious, and good at communicating. That seems to match her well, considering her long career in public relations.

She currently lives in Richmond, Virginia, where she enjoys a quiet and private life. While she’s not on social media much, she’s active in her own ways—mentoring others, supporting community causes, and living a calm life outside the spotlight.

Even at 75, she continues to show grace and wisdom in everything she does.

Kathy Ambush Education and Qualifications

Kathy Ambush was always serious about her education. She started at St. Peter-Marion Central Catholic High School, a private school in her hometown. After high school, she went to Anna Maria College from 1968 to 1970, where she studied Sociology.

But she didn’t stop there. In 1975, she joined Lincoln University in Missouri, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration by 1977. This helped her get into the business and nonprofit world later on.

She also trained in radio broadcasting at the Broadcast Centre in St. Louis from 1978 to 1979. Her communication skills became one of her biggest strengths, helping her succeed in public relations and community work.

Kathy Ambush’s Career and Public Work

Kathy’s career spans over four decades, and she has worked in many different areas. She was a communications specialist at the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) from 1979 to 1984. There, she worked on political events and radio messaging for Republican leaders.

Later, she became the Director of the Massachusetts Advanced Studies Program at Milton Academy between 1990 and 1994. In this role, she helped young students get better learning opportunities.

From 1998 to 2002, she worked at BankBoston as a Community Relations Specialist, organizing volunteer events and helping with speech writing. Then from 2002 to 2018, she joined the Immigrant Learning Centre, where she served as both Assistant Director and Director of Development. There, she helped raise funds and provide free English classes for immigrants and refugees.

Through all of this, Kathy Ambush built a reputation as someone who truly cares about others and wants to make a difference.

What Does Kathy Ambush Do Now?

Today, Kathy Ambush is a retired professional, but she’s far from done helping others. She is now an entrepreneur and life mentor, helping people reach their goals through business coaching and personal growth.

She is also connected to Global Internet Entrepreneur, where she supports online businesses and wellness communities. On her LinkedIn, she says:

“Life is about reinventing oneself. I take great pleasure in mentoring ambitious people who want a coach to help them connect the dots to their Best Life!”

Kathy is also involved in philanthropy, especially through the Kathy Foundation, which helps underprivileged kids get better education and support. She also worked as an Amway ambassador, promoting healthy lifestyles and wellness products.

Even in her 70s, Kathy Ambush stays active, positive, and focused on making the world better for others.

Kathy Ambush and Clarence Thomas

Kathy Ambush met Clarence Thomas back in college. He was a student at Holy Cross College, and she was studying nearby at Anna Maria College. They connected through mutual friends and started dating around 1969.

Their relationship grew strong quickly. Just two years later, they got married in a small, private ceremony on June 5, 1971, at All Saints Episcopal Church. Right after the wedding, the couple moved to New Haven, Connecticut, where Clarence began studying law at Yale University.

At that time, they were both young and building their future. Kathy supported Clarence through law school, and they seemed to be on the same path—working hard, raising a family, and hoping for a bright future.

Kathy Ambush and Clarence Thomas’ Divorce Story

Sadly, the happy days didn’t last. After about 10 years of marriage, things started to fall apart. They officially separated in 1981 and finalized their divorce in 1984.

Neither Kathy nor Clarence ever shared full details about the breakup. But some sources believe Clarence’s drinking problem and his rumored affair with Lillian McEwen (a woman who later spoke publicly) may have caused deep problems in their marriage.

During those hard times, Clarence admitted in his book that he was struggling financially and emotionally. Kathy was going through her own challenges, too. In the end, they went their separate ways. Clarence got custody of their son, and Kathy chose to step out of the public eye.

Does Kathy Ambush Have Any Children?

Yes, Kathy Ambush has one child. His name is Jamal Adeen Thomas, and he was born on February 15, 1973, at Yale New Haven Hospital in Connecticut.

Jamal is Kathy’s only son, and she raised him with great care and love. Even after her divorce from Clarence, she stayed involved in Jamal’s life, even though Clarence had full custody.

She has no other known children, even after remarrying later in life. Kathy has always been known as a caring and supportive mother.

Who Is Jamal Adeen Thomas, and What Does He Do?

Jamal Adeen Thomas is now in his early 50s. He built a successful career in the financial world, not the legal world like his father. In 2025, he works as the Director of Supervision at The Potomac Group, part of Northwestern Mutual.

He studied at Virginia Military Institute, where he earned a degree in Economics and Business. Over the years, Jamal has worked in financial services, helping others with money matters and planning.

Though his parents are well-known, Jamal lives a quiet life. He’s not someone who appears in the news or seeks attention. Like his mother, he values privacy and professionalism.

Is Kathy Ambush Married Now?

Yes, after her divorce from Clarence Thomas, Kathy Ambush remarried. Her second husband was Douglas Allen Smith. He was a businessman and software expert from New York City.

Douglas founded several companies, including The Boston Auto Advocate and Sterling Transportation. He worked in different fields like tech, auto sales, and even executive driving. The couple lived in Richmond, Virginia, where they enjoyed a peaceful life together.

Sadly, Douglas passed away on September 1, 2023. Kathy was deeply affected by his loss but continues to live in Richmond, staying active in mentoring and community work.

Kathy Ambush Net Worth and Lifestyle in 2025

As of 2025, Kathy Ambush’s estimated net worth is around $2 million. She built this through her long career in public relations, her work in nonprofit organizations, and her success as an entrepreneur.

Even though she has earned well, Kathy lives a simple and peaceful lifestyle. She doesn’t chase fame or luxury. Instead, she focuses on helping others, running her foundation, and enjoying her retirement with purpose.

Kathy Ambush may not be in the headlines, but she has touched many lives quietly and kindly. Her journey from being Clarence Thomas’s wife to becoming Kathy Smith, a strong and inspiring woman, is a powerful story of growth and grace.

Closing Thoughts

Kathy Ambush’s life reminds us that you don’t need to be famous to be inspiring. She went through a high-profile marriage, personal struggles, and public silence—but came out stronger.

From a hardworking student to a proud mother and leader, Kathy has shown quiet courage in every part of her life. Her story is not just about who she married—it’s about who she became.

Whether you knew her name before or not, Kathy Ambush deserves to be remembered—not just as Clarence Thomas’s first wife, but as a woman who lived with strength, dignity, and purpose.

(FAQs)

What is Kathy Ambush’s net worth in 2025?

Kathy Ambush’s net worth is estimated at $2 million, built through decades of public relations work, nonprofit leadership, and quiet entrepreneurship.

How old is Kathy Ambush, and when is her birthday?

She was born on June 6, 1950, which makes her 75 years old in 2025. Yes, she’s 75—and still active and mentoring others!

Who is Kathy Ambush married to now?

After divorcing Clarence Thomas, she married Douglas Allen Smith, a businessman who sadly passed away in 2023.

What was Kathy Ambush like when she was young?

In her younger days, Kathy was a smart, focused student who studied sociology and business, and later trained in radio broadcasting. She married Clarence Thomas in her early 20s.

Where is Kathy Ambush today?

As of 2025, Kathy Ambush lives a quiet life in Richmond, Virginia. She’s retired, runs a foundation, and helps others as a mentor and life coach.