Rev. Lewis Flowers, chairman and former executive director of the Westside Ministers Coalition died on Dec. 9, 2012 after battling an illness. Here are some of the remarks sent to Austin Weekly News about his death.
“I am very saddened at the passing of Reverend Dr. Flowers and extend my deepest condolences to his family and the Austin community. I have only known Reverend Flowers for a short time, but know he has left a lasting impression on our district as an advocate for Chicago’s children and our schools. His loss will be felt throughout our entire school community and our thoughts are with his loved ones at this time.”
Barbara Byrd-Bennett
Chief Executive Officer for the Chicago Public Schools
I’m so sorry to hear about his passing. Rev. Flowers was a tireless worker for the people of Austin. He will surely be missed. My prayers go out to his family on the loss of a great man.
Sharon Morgan
Rev. Flowers was and remains in my heart; one of the deepest friendships I have ever known. His love of community and his efforts on the Local School Council and education reform, as well as community rebuilding. When we met at the community workshop on economic development and the empowerment zone, Rev. Flowers was as a great advocate for Chicago’s communities. Their is not a person I know that Rev. Flowers did not touch to improve the quality of life for, in the west or south sides of Chicago. He cared for all. My friend and brother in Christ, know your work was not in vain. Your works continue.
Steven Givhan
I am very grateful to have had the privilege of witnessing his tireless effort in bringing ministers, other leaders and common citizens alike into unity and accountability. His heart was for the common good of the citizens of the Austin Community, and the West side at large.
Vivian Gaulding
I’m extremely shocked by the news that Dr. Rev. Flowers made his transition to the next phase of his spiritual journey. He is a tireless champion for justice for all people. He will truly be missed. But his fight continues in the place that he loved, the West Side. My prayers are with the Flowers family as we continue to carry out his vision.
Anthony Lowery
I cannot think of anyone who has fought longer or harder for families, and particularly the children of Austin, than Rev. Flowers. To his wonderful soul mate and family, we miss him and will keep him and your family in our prayers. We say that he worked in the Austin Community, but his work, support, and influence, was as global as it was local. Rev. Flowers, we owe so much to you, but God has other work for you to do. We thank him for the time he allowed us to share in your good works. Rest my friend, rest.
James Deanes
Rest in peace my dear friend. God has called one of the best home. I loved you dearly, and steadfast remained a dear friend of mind. Rest my friend rest.
Kimberly Muhammad
As a fellow USMC Vietnam Veteran and a friend of Rev. Flowers, I concur that the Austin Community lost a valuable community warrior for social Justice.
James R. Shannon
Reverend Lewis Flowers was a committed leader and powerful voice for Austin residents, both young and old. His love for family was heartwarming. And his relentless advocacy for the “least of these” was a blessing beyond measure. I extend my prayers and deepest condolences to his wife, Cynthia, the Flowers family and to all the members of The Westside Ministers Coalition. God has called this faithful servant to rest.
Michelle Collins
