Rev. Cecil Williams, pastor of Glide Memorial Church, dies at 94

San Francisco community activist and revered pastor, Reverend Cecil Williams, passed away at the age of 94 on April 22, 2024.

The news of his death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from city officials and residents alike.

San Francisco Mayor London Breed paid homage to Rev. Cecil Williams in a statement, hailing him as the “conscience of our San Francisco Community.”

She lauded his profound impact on the city, particularly through his leadership at Glide Memorial Church. Breed highlighted Williams’ instrumental role in establishing supportive housing and wraparound programs.

Breed ended the statement by writing: “As a young girl, I would never have dreamed I’d grow up to work with him. We all benefited from his guidance, his support, and his moral compass. We would not be who we are as a city and a people without the legendary Cecil Williams.”

Governor Gavin Newsom also released a statement on Williams’ death Monday. It read, in part: “Reverend Williams truly embodied the California values of unity, generosity and acceptance. All of us can take inspiration from his legacy and renew our commitment to one another.”

Rev. Cecil Williams served as the pastor of Glide Memorial Church from 1963 until his retirement in 2023. Throughout his tenure, he tirelessly advocated for marginalized communities and championed causes of social justice.

His profound impact extended beyond the church walls, leaving an indelible mark on the city of San Francisco and beyond.

Rev. Cecil Williams is survived by his two children, Albert and Kim. He was preceded in death by his wife, Janice Mirikitani, a celebrated poet, in 2021.