Thousands pack Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church for 1st of 2 services honoring Rev. William Lawson

Houston, Texas (KTRK) — Thousands gathered Thursday night for a community service to honor the late Rev. William A. Lawson, a civil rights icon and founder of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church.

Rev. Lawson, affectionately known as “Houston’s pastor,” passed away on May 14 at the age of 95.

The service celebrated his life with song and stories, highlighting how he grew the church from 13 parishioners in 1962 to over 12,000 today. Although he retired in 2004, he continued to serve as Pastor Emeritus.

Rev. Lawson was known as a pastor, a trailblazer for equality, and a bridge builder. “Despite his soft-spoken demeanor, Rev. Lawson’s impact was profound. He had a unique ability to convey powerful and sometimes difficult messages with gentle words, inspiring change and reflection,” said Martin Cominsky, CEO and president of Interfaith Ministries, addressing the packed cathedral.

Lawson was a father of four, including ABC13’s Melanie Lawson, who, along with her family, attended the service.

“I will cherish the gift that he gave me. I am honored to have known him, to get that big hug from him, that big smile that made my heart melt, and a prayer that would carry me through the day,” said Eileen Morris of The Ensemble Theater during the service.

Other speakers included clergymen, community leaders, and friends.

Earlier, mourners lined up to pay their respects during a visitation. The reverend’s body was then moved from the original sanctuary to the cathedral in a solemn procession of church leaders.

Rev. Lawson worked alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the civil rights movement and, with his wife Audrey, founded Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church. The couple was married for 61 years before Audrey’s passing in 2015.

The final celebration of Rev. Lawson’s life will take place Friday morning at 11 a.m.