Supervisor Montgomery Step honors legacy of San Diego's first Black City Council member

The San Diego County Board of Supervisors held a poignant session on March 11, 2025, where Supervisor Monica Montgomery stepped forward to honor the late Leon L. Williams, a trailblazer in the community who passed away at the age of 102. The meeting concluded with a heartfelt adjournment dedicated to Williams, whose legacy as a civil rights advocate and public servant has left an indelible mark on San Diego.

Born on July 21, 1922, in Oklahoma, Williams moved to San Diego in 1941 to serve in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Despite facing racial discrimination, he became a pioneering figure in the fight for equality, notably becoming the first Black homeowner in the Golden Hill neighborhood in 1947. His public service career began in 1969 when he was elected as San Diego's first Black City Council Member, where he focused on community development and inclusivity.

Williams played a crucial role in establishing the Southeastern Economic Development Corporation and the Center City Development Corporation, which revitalized downtown and surrounding neighborhoods. In 1982, he made history again as the first Black member of the San Diego County Board of Supervisors and later served as president of the California State Association of Counties.

His commitment to the community extended to education, founding a scholarship fund for Black students pursuing careers in health care. Williams was also a strong advocate for public transportation, chairing the Metropolitan Transit Development Board and contributing to the development of the San Diego State University trolley system.

In recognition of his contributions, the county renamed the local human relations commission in his honor, and a street was named Leon Williams Drive in 2017. His memoir, published at age 98, chronicled his inspiring journey and commitment to community service.

Williams is remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for his vibrant personality and love for his community. He is survived by a large family, including ten children, and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. The Board of Supervisors extended their condolences to his family, reflecting on a life dedicated to service, equality, and community empowerment.