News Summary
Birmingham, Alabama, recently celebrated the centenary of Rev. Bill Greason, an iconic figure in baseball history and civil rights. The event at Rickwood Field united friends, family, and dignitaries to honor Greason’s legacy as the oldest living member of the Negro Leagues, and his contributions both on and off the field. With touching tributes and a salute from the U.S. Marine Corps, the celebration highlighted Rev. Greason’s profound impact on sports, his community, and his unwavering faith.
Birmingham Comes Alive to Celebrate Rev. Bill Greason’s 100th Birthday
In Birmingham, Alabama, a vibrant gathering took place recently as friends, family, and admirers gathered to honor an exceptional man, Rev. Bill Greason, who celebrated his 100th birthday at the historic Rickwood Field. This iconic venue, home to many unforgettable baseball moments, served as the perfect backdrop for an emotional tribute to one of America’s living legends.
A Baseball Pioneer
Rev. Bill Greason isn’t just celebrating a milestone birthday; he is recognized as the oldest living member of the Negro Leagues and has made history as the first Black pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals. His achievements on and off the field have inspired numerous individuals, making him a cornerstone of both baseball and American history.
Greason grew up in the same neighborhood as the baseball titan Willie Mays and even shared Sunday School experiences with the renowned Martin Luther King Jr. Such ties to influential figures in sports and civil rights paint a vivid picture of his life and the era he was a part of.
A Life of Service
Alongside his contributions to sports, Greason has been a man of faith. Since 1971, he has been an ordained minister and continues to preach every Sunday at Bethel Baptist Church. His commitment extends beyond the pulpit as he embodies a life dedicated to duty and care for his community.
Further showcasing his unwavering spirit, Greason also served as one of the first Black Marines during World War II, bravely fighting at Iwo Jima. His experience during the war was mixed with intense camaraderie and heart-wrenching loss, marking a chapter that shaped his character and faith profoundly.
A Salute to an American Hero
The birthday celebration was organized by the Heart and Armor Foundation for Veterans Health, highlighting the importance of honoring those who have served. Apart from the joyous atmosphere, a solemn moment occurred as the U.S. Marine Corps delivered a full dress uniform salute in recognition of Greason’s service and contributions. Such gestures remind us of the profound respect he commands across various fields.
Community and Recognition
Dignitaries from various sectors, including Major General J. Michael Myatt and U.S. Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell, attended the event, showcasing the respect and love the community holds for this remarkable man. In addition, heartfelt letters of gratitude were presented to Greason from several notable figures, including former President George W. Bush and MLB player Mike Yastrzemski, further emphasizing the impact he’s had on and off the field.
Reflections on a Remarkable Journey
During the celebration, a warm and touching message from fellow baseball great Willie Mays was shared. Mays reflected on how Greason played a pivotal role in supporting him throughout his career. This acknowledgment speaks volumes about the mentorship and guidance Greason has provided to many aspiring talents.
As Rev. Greason reflected on his storied life, he expressed deep gratitude for his longevity and the honor bestowed upon him. He highlighted that his journey has been one of divine blessings, attributing his health and success to a higher power. Greason modestly emphasized the importance of humility and responsibility, stressing how staying low-profile has helped him avoid the pitfalls that often accompany public life.
Celebrating a Legacy
Rev. Bill Greason’s 100th birthday is not merely a celebration of his age but a reminder of the rich legacy he represents—a journey filled with faith, service, and an unwavering love for baseball. As Birmingham came together to honor this American hero, it became clear that his impact will resonate for generations to come, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps with hope and dedication. Cheers to a life well-lived!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- USA Today: Negro Leagues Legend Bill Greason’s 100th Birthday
- Wikipedia: Negro Leagues
- Birmingham Times: Toyal McLain – Prayer and Gratitude
- Google Search: Gratitude and Mental Health
- Bham Now: Losing Her Little Brother and Life Insurance
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gratitude
- Psychology Today: How Gratitude Can Harm Mental Health
- Google News: Rev Bill Greason
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
