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.
“One of Cecil’s most special qualities was that he met people where they were, both literally and spiritually,” said Oakland resident Ernestine Nettles, who has known Williams for over 50 years. “If someone couldn’t come to the church for a Thanksgiving meal, volunteers would pack up a meal and hand it out on the streets.”
Nettles added that Williams embodied the values of love and acceptance central to Christianity. She said he treated everyone with respect and equality, regardless of factors such as race, age, or sexuality.
“He was a true example of an American and a Christian,” Nettles said. “He was a drum major for justice.”
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.
Williams’ impact was felt by many in San Francisco and beyond. “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.”
Other public figures took to social media to express their gratitude and mourn the loss of Williams, who dedicated his life to serving others.