Rev. William Lawson, Houston's Civil Rights Leader, Dies at 95

Lawson, founder of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, was pivotal in desegregating Houston and worked closely with Martin Luther King Jr.

Lawson founded Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church in 1962 and served as its pastor for over four decades.
He played a key role in desegregating Houston and supported student protests against segregation.
Lawson hosted Martin Luther King Jr. at his church when others would not, fostering a close friendship.
He was instrumental in various community initiatives, including education, homelessness, and voter mobilization.
Houston leaders praised Lawson's enduring legacy and contributions to social justice.