Mayor Karen Bass Monday expressed condolences over the death of Rev. William Saxe Epps, a longtime senior pastor of Second Baptist Church of Los Angeles and member of the Affordable Housing Commission.
Epps died last Monday from cancer. He was 80.
“I am deeply saddened by the loss of my dear friend and an extraordinary leader, Reverend Doctor William Saxe Epps — a beloved pastor and a cornerstone of Los Angeles whose vision for equity helped shape our city,” Bass said in a statement.
“Just last year, I had the honor of attending Dr. Epps’ retirement celebration and offering remarks in recognition of his lifetime of service. That moment reflected who he was: deeply respected, widely loved, and unwavering in his commitment to the people of Los Angeles.
“Dr. Epps’ legacy extends far beyond the pulpit. For more than three decades, he served as a commissioner on the Affordable Housing Commission across five mayoral administrations, including mine. His leadership advanced innovative housing efforts that saved lives and strengthened our communities. His legacy lives on in the lives of our most vulnerable neighbors, whom he championed with tireless devotion, compassion, and an unwavering heart.
“Under his leadership, Second Baptist Church became not only a place of worship, but a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change. Dr. Epps believed deeply in the power of faith paired with action, and he lived that belief every day.”
Epps led the Second Baptist Church of Los Angeles for nearly 38 years. He oversaw a $6 million renovation to modernize the church, which was later designated as a historic site by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Epps earned degrees from Bishop College, Columbia University and completed his Doctor of Ministry at St. Mary’s Seminary and University.
Epps devoted his life to “serving this present age” through his advocacy for affordable housing, community revitalization, and spiritual empowerment, according to the Los Angeles Chapter of the NAACP, the nation’s oldest civil rights organization.
“Los Angeles has lost a moral compass and a tireless champion for equity,” NAACP said in a statement issued last Monday. “Dr. William S. Epps was not only a spiritual pillar at the historic Second Baptist Church but a fierce advocate for the voiceless.”
Epps’ survivors include his wife and daughters Jaqueline Jeannelle and Andrea Nichole