By Darrel Wheeler, Contributing Writer
On June 22, 2022, San Diego lost a true community treasure in Dr. Willie Lee Morrow.
Family, friends, and associates of hair-care pioneer Willie Lee Morrow were able to pay homage to him at his home going celebration last Friday, July 15, at Bayview Church.
A very impressive roster of San Diego community all-stars attended the celebration. Politicians, the clergy, entertainers, business and activists showed up to honor San Diego’s beloved hero.
Abdur Rahim Hameed, Tayari Howard, Monica Montgomery-Steppe, Shane Harris, William Carter, Chida Warren-Darby, Floyd Smith, Bob Filner and George A McKinney were some of the representatives at Bayview.
Secretary of State, Dr. Shirley Weber, and businessman, Lafayette Jones, gave their regards to the Morrow family via the virtual experience.
“Dr Willie Morrow is the epitome of what black entrepreneurship looks like,” shared Shane Harris, President of the PAJ. “Dr. Morrow created a black ecosystem that still exists today, not only in San Diego but across the country.”
Dr. Morrow was a nationally respected barber, publisher, author, chemist, gardener, philosopher, inventor of the Cali-Jheri Curl, and all around good guy.
He was honored with many proclamations of recognition for his many contributions to his community and the Nation.
“Every award and compliment that he got he deserved them. Willie was a true inspiration to many a good friend and a legend,” friend William Billy Carter said. “San Diego was very fortunate to have him live here, especially in our community. He was definitely a unique and charismatic individual and he will be missed.”
