HOUSTON — Pastor and civil rights icon Rev. William Bill Lawson died last week at 95 years old.
Lawson's body laid in repose Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ahead of a Community Service of Celebration at 6 p.m. The Congregational Service of Celebration will be held at 11 a.m. Friday morning. Both services will be held at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, located at 3826 Wheeler Avenue in Houston.
The public is invited to each service.
Rev. Lawson was often described as Houston's pastor. Dr. Marcus Cosby, Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church's current senior pastor, spoke about Lawson's life and his impact on the community.
"His living has reminded us of our necessity to show love for all humanity," Cosby said. "To ensure that no one feels they are not included in the family of God or the family of our congregation."
Lawson is remembered as a champion for human and spiritual rights. Now, an eternal flame burns in his honor outside his church.
