Celebrating a Legacy: How a Dedicated Education Advocate and Retired Teacher is Inspiring Generations on Her 108th Birthday

Julia Ann McKnight Teamer is celebrating an incredible milestone—her 108th birthday on January 16. Born in 1917, she has witnessed so much change throughout her life. Back then, World War I was ongoing, Charlotte didn’t have public schools for Black students, and women hadn’t yet earned the right to vote.

Teamer is known for her dedication to education and her strong community spirit. She co-founded Teamer Religious and Educational Enterprises with her late husband, Bishop James Teamer, working tirelessly to better the lives of those around them. Growing up in a large family as the seventh of eleven children, she graduated from Second Ward High School in Charlotte. She continued her education at Barber-Scotia College and later earned her degree from Johnson C. Smith University. Her thirst for knowledge didn’t stop there—she took graduate courses at prestigious schools like New York University, Columbia, and the University of Pennsylvania, where she obtained a master’s degree.

The Teamers played a significant role in their community, founding the Cosmopolitan Community Church in the 1970s. They established a religious school aimed at providing educational opportunities for underprivileged Black youth in Lincoln Heights. In 1985, their efforts were recognized by U.S. Rep. Alex McMillan in the Congressional Record, highlighting their comprehensive approach to community service—addressing mental, physical, social, and spiritual needs.

For 38 years, Julia Teamer taught elementary school in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area. She earned the title of Teacher of the Year twice, showing her exceptional commitment and impact in schools such as Fairview, Double Oaks, Oaklawn, and Allenbrook.

Even after retiring, her mission continued. She passionately mentored students, advocated for their education, and worked to keep them engaged in school. Her community involvement included leading Girl Scout troops, directing summer camps, and being one of the first instructors for the Head Start program.

Teamer also made her mark on the Phyllis Wheatley YMCA Board of Directors as its youngest member. Additionally, she served as the Superintendent of the church school at Cosmopolitan Community Church and taught Bible classes.