William “bill” lawson, a longtime pastor and civil rights leader who helped desegregate houston and worked with martin luther king jr. Lawson passed away, leaving behind a legacy of profound influence and inspiration. His life’s work continues to inspire those who strive for a more. Webhouston (ap) — the rev. William “bill” lawson, a longtime pastor and civil rights leader who helped desegregate houston and worked with the rev. Bill lawson, champion of civil rights, human rights and spiritual rights, has died at 95. Houston — as the houston community continues to pay tribute to,. Lawson, a civil rights icon who was also known as houston's pastor and the founder of wheeler avenue baptist church, died tuesday.
