Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed profound sorrow over the death of Reverend Doctor William Saxe Epps, a venerated community leader and pastor of the Second Baptist Church. "I am deeply saddened by the loss of my dear friend and an extraordinary leader," Mayor Bass said, reflecting the sentiment of a city grappling with the passing of a man often described as a pillar of the community. According to the official statement released by her office, Mayor Bass acknowledged Dr. Epps' unwavering dedication to Los Angeles and his achievements, which notably included his leadership on the Affordable Housing Commission.
Dr. Epps' impact was acutely felt in the realm of housing, where he worked relentlessly to actively advocate for affordable housing policies across five mayoral administrations. "His leadership advanced innovative housing efforts that saved lives and strengthened our communities," Bass stated, underlining the importance of his contributions. Dr. Epps served the people of Los Angeles not just as a pastor but also as a longstanding champion for the city's most vulnerable citizens, devoting over three decades of service to the cause of equity and housing availability.
The Second Baptist Church, under Dr. Epps' stewardship, transformed into more than a place of prayer. It emerged as a source of hope and a driver of essential change within the urban landscape of Los Angeles. Mayor Bass, in her statement, highlighted Dr. Epps' belief in the combined power of faith and active effort towards the betterment of society. "Dr. Epps believed deeply in the power of faith paired with action, and he lived that belief every day," said Mayor Bass, showcasing the reverend's commitment to executing his vision for the community he served.
As the city mourns, Mayor Bass extended her condolences to Dr. Epps' family, congregation, and all who were influenced by his ministry and outreach. "To his beloved family, congregation, and all who were touched by his life and ministry, I extend my deepest condolences," Bass remarked. The legacy of Dr. Epps is set to live on in the fabric of Los Angeles, in the lives he touched and the communities he helped to fundamentally reshape.
