Web“this morning, we were saddened to hear of the passing of rev. Lawson was a remarkable and beloved pastor in the local. 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 has left an incredible legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. Despite his age and wisdom, he had an extraordinary ability to connect with. Webby the time he died at 95 tuesday morning, he was the rev. Lawson, the founding pastor of wheeler avenue baptist church, a strong voice for equality and a. Webstory by houston landing. O ne service wasn’t enough to celebrate the life of a beloved community leader, civil rights trailblazer, founding pastor emeritus of the church.