03/07/2025
Leon Williams, one of the most beloved public figures in the history of San Diego, passed away this week. He was a man of 102 years who made extraordinarily good use of the time given to him by our Creator.
While his passing is a mournful occasion, I am happy to have the opportunity to emphasize how immensely precious and valuable was the life he gave to San Diego.
Mr. Willams came of age during the war years and made his mark on San Diego during the boom times that followed, as our region was transformed into a thriving metropolis. Throughout much of that time the curse of racial animus was a chronic and pervasive affliction, but his grace, intelligence, and inexhaustible networking enabled him to overcome and emerge as a widely respected leader.
Leon Williams was the first Black person to serve as a member of the City Council and also of the County Board of Supervisors, but those achievements tell only a small part of his story. He left his mark on San Diego in many ways, on the shape and character of our city, and on the many civic institutions that benefitted from his guidance and support. It would not be possible to write an honest account of the past 50 years of San Diego’s history without devoting considerable attention to his contributions.
Leon Williams was the patriarch of a large family – he fathered ten children and enjoyed his numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His survivors are very fortunate to be able to proudly claim a connection to his great legacy.
On behalf of the Republican Party of San Diego I express our sincere condolences to his family and many friends. We recognize Leon Williams as a great man, one whose memory and legacy will survive in San Diego for generations to come
Respectfully,
Paula Whitsell, Chair
Republican Party of San Diego
