In Loving Memory:

Rev. Dr. William Thomas Jr.

November 8, 1947 - November 14, 2020

Rev. Dr. William Thomas Jr. — more commonly known as Pastor Bill — was an award winning actor, a gifted musician an inspiring teacher, a renowned preacher, and most importantly, a beacon of light and friendship in an otherwise dark world. Growing up in Columbus, Ohio; Pastor Bill quickly discovered a passion for music and the arts through his faith within the Disciples of Christ Church. His love of the arts led him to a rewarding career on Broadway, all the while working at the Minister of Music for his local Disciples church. Pastor Bill then moved out to Los Angeles to make a name for himself in the world of film and television — having appeared on The Cosby Show, Bruce Almighty, and received an NAACP Image Award Nomination for his role on Frank’s Place. Shortly thereafter, Pastor Bill took up the mantle as the Music Coordinator for the Disciples of Christ General Assembly.

In 2009, Pastor Bill was called to pastor here at Little White Chapel, and in 2012, received his Doctor of Ministry Degree from Claremont School of Theology. While serving as pastor, Pastor Bill further went on to teach in the Claremont Theology program as well as teaching performance at UCLA. No matter where he went, Pastor Bill created an endless trail of students, family, and friends to walk alongside him. It is Pastor Bill’s endless faith, compassion, and empathy that inspires us to continuously grow and improve in hopes we can instill the sense of welcome in the world that he has done for our congregation.