William Raspberry

To the family of William Raspberry; I first met Mr. Raspberry when I was seventeen years old, and I was a graduating high-school senior and on the way to college to study art and journalism. I had just won a scholarship and award from the Capitol Press Club, and Mr. Raspberry was one of the members who had nominated me for the college gift. I am certain that his decision was responsible for my receiving a second scholarship the following year. He and I remained in touch, and he was a wonderful mentor. I was free to drop by the Post building and sit by his desk and chat. Another friend of mine, reporter Ward Sinclair, had his own desk a few feet away. I would watch Herblock circulate his cartoons for comments from his colleagues. Mr. Raspberry and I stayed in touch until he retired. I could call him and ask for comments from him on my own writing. If he had the time, he took the time to talk to me. If not, he would say,"I'm on deadline," and I knew to call back later. I was thrilled to meet him at the young age of seventeen, and saddened to hear of his passing, now that I am sixty-two years old. I read every column he wrote, discussed some of them with him, and sat next to his desk while we laughed at the poster"The Raspberry Award" picturing raspberries tumbling out of a cereal bowl. He was warm, funny, serious, insightful, courageous. Some losses can never be mended. Mr. William Raspberry is such a one. Sincerely, Victoria Price.

For years I have enjoyed reading the well-written articles of this erudite man of words and always felt a connection because of our relationship (cousin). His memory will withstand the test of time.

To the Raspberry family, we want to offer our deepest condolences to the passing of a great and wise man. We truly regret not having met him in person. His proud legacy will endure.
Sincerely,
Aurelia Boose Wight (Dilworth cousin)

My condolences to the family and especially to Angela. I have a card on which I wote a note the day Mr Raspberry passed, but do not have an address to send it. Mr. Raspberry was thoughtful and supportive; he came to a reception at the Post in which I was involved and I really appreciated it. I was out of the city the week of the 21st or I certainly would have attended his service. I will send the card when I locate an address.

Josephine Baker
Former teacher at Shpherd Elem. School

What a delightful person! I met Mr. Raspberry throught the church choir, and he greatly made it a wonderful experience. Our deepest sympathy to the family. He will be in your hearts forever. God be with you .

I never missed reading his columns in the Post when we lived in Virginia. Always the voice of reason. He set an example we should all follow. My deepest condolences.

I still remember his graduation speech for Patricia's high school commencement. Prayers and thoughts to his family.

Mr. Raspberry was wise, kind and compassionate towards me once when I was going through a difficult time at work. His advice helped me get through it and still comes back to me in myriad other situations. I will always deeply appreciate his kindness then and when he kept an open and cheerful – though healthily skeptical – mind when we discussed Buddhism at another time. Heartfelt sympathy and sincerest condolences to his family and friends - you are in my thoughts and prayers.

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Remembering an etheric event at Albert Piper's,Dingane's Den poetry recital's with Jayne Cortez,Stanley Crouch,Dumas,Sonia Sanchez,Gil Scott Heron and Gil's mentor , writer Gaston Neal.
Raspberry,with his elegant,graceful conversation mesmerized each of these wordsmiths.Your presence is everlasting Raspberry.
To Sondra and family
Respectfully.Profound Condolences.
Chuck Stone
founding member
Congressional Black Caucus
Bob Stokes33*
The Mother Lodge