Rev. Bill Lawson: Burial service conducted for civil rights symbol, originator of Wheeler Ave. Church belonging to the Baptist denomination.
Written by Jessica Willey and Mycah Hatfield

In a final service, thousands gathered at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church in Houston, Texas, to pay tribute to Reverend William A. Lawson, the church’s founder and a revered clergyman known for his work in civil rights.

Rev. Lawson, who was also known as the pastor of Houston, passed away at the age of 95 on May 14.

On Friday, over 20 speakers spoke at the service, including Mayor John Whitmire, former mayor Sylvester Turner, Commissioner Rodney Ellis, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Congressman Al Green, Lakewood Pastor Joel Osteen, and Beth Israel’s Rabbi David Lyon, sharing memories about the late pastor.

“Wheeler, you have received great blessings and favor,” Turner said passionately. Houston, we have been fortunate and greatly favored. Credit belongs to God for the goodness he has shown. May William Alexander Lawson rest in peace.

His daughters, Melanie, Roxanne, and Cheryl, who have been with ABC13 for a long time, appeared on stage together to reminisce.

Melanie mentioned that many individuals have expressed gratitude for their parents sharing them and believed that being separated from them was a source of pain for them. However, she explained that, in reality, they actually benefited greatly from the experience.

A party was organized Thursday evening featuring music and anecdotes to honor the man who expanded Wheeler Avenue from 13 members in 1962 to over 12,000 nowadays.

Even though Rev. Lawson spoke softly, his influence was significant. CEO and president of Interfaith Ministries, Martin Cominsky, said in the crowded cathedral that he could communicate challenging messages effectively yet gently, motivating people to reflect and bring about change.

I will treasure the present he bestowed upon me. During the service, Eileen Morris of The Ensemble Theater expressed her gratitude for knowing him, receiving his big hug and smile that melted her heart, and a prayer that would guide her through the day.