SAN FRANCISCO (US MEDIA GROUP) – Renowned pastor and activist, Rev. Cecil Williams, passed away Monday at the age of 94 in San Francisco. He is best known for his leadership at the Glide Memorial Church in the city’s Tenderloin district, where he oversaw several community outreach projects for over six decades.
Williams retired as pastor in 2000, but continued to work with Glide to provide support and resources for the impoverished residents of the city. He is most well-known for Glide’s annual Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, which feed hundreds of thousands of people in need. He also prioritized outreach and support for all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Williams’ dedication to serving the community was evident from a young age, as he fought for women’s rights and other causes during his time as a pastor at Glide. He co-founded the church in 1960 with his late wife, Janice Mirikitani, who passed away in 2021.
“Cecil Williams was the conscience of our San Francisco community,” said Mayor London Breed in a statement. “He spoke out against injustice and stood for equality and compassion. We all benefited from his guidance and moral compass.”
Governor Gavin Newsom, who previously served as San Francisco’s mayor, also expressed his condolences. “Reverend Williams embodied the California values of unity, generosity, and acceptance,” said Newsom. “We can all find inspiration in his legacy and recommit to supporting one another.”
Read the full story from the Sac Observer/US Media Group.
