In the heart of South Memphis, the Reverend Dr. Walter Womack stood as a guiding light for the community, striving for change and advocating for those most in need. On Wednesday, the Memphis branch of the NAACP confirmed his passing.
For years, Dr. Womack was a familiar face in the Walker Homes neighborhood, where he led the congregation at Faithful Baptist Church. His influence, however, stretched far beyond the pulpit. As the sitting president of the Memphis chapter of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), he was involved in local efforts to reduce youth violence and create safe spaces and mentorship programs to protect and uplift the cityโs youth.
In 2021, after hearing about a troubling increase in homicides, Dr. Womack’s words rang with urgency. “Weโre going to have to put boots on the ground and engage our young people,” he said, showing a determination to combat the rising tide of violence with a call to action.
Throughout the years, Dr. Womack was regarded by many as a beacon of hope, a voice of reason and a leader who never shied away from the tough conversations about how to reshape the future of the city. His presence in Memphis, particularly in the South Memphis community, was felt deeply by all who knew him. Faith leaders across the city have expressed how much his commitment to social change and youth advocacy will be missed.
A visitation and memorial service for Pastor Womack will be held Friday, Feb. 28, 2025, from 4-7 p.m. at Faithful Baptist Church, 462 Flynn Rd., Memphis, TN 38109.
Funeral service will on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 11 a.m. at New Mt. Sinai M. B. Church, 4920 Horn Lake Rd., Memphis, TN 38109, with burial at Tennessee Veterans Cemetery.
M.J. Edwards โ Whitehaven Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
