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WASHINGTON — William Raspberry, a Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist for The Washington Post and one of the most widely read black journalists of his generation, died Tuesday. He was 76.
Mr. Raspberry had prostate cancer and died at his home in Washington, his wife, Sondra Raspberry, told the Post. A Post spokeswoman confirmed his death.
Mr. Raspberry, who grew up in segregated Mississippi, wrote an opinion column for the Post for nearly 40 years. More than 200 newspapers carried his column in syndication before he retired in 2005.
He won the Pulitzer for commentary in 1994, becoming the second black columnist to achieve the honor. His columns covered topics including urban violence, the legacies of civil rights leaders and female genital mutilation in Africa.
Mr. Raspberry started at The Post in 1962 as a teletype operator and began working as a reporter within months. In 1965, he covered the riots in the Watts section of Los Angeles, and he began writing a column on local matters a year later.
At the time, the only nationally syndicated black columnist in the mainstream media was Carl Rowan. Mr. Raspberry's column moved to The Post's op-ed page in 1970.
"Bill Raspberry inspired a rising generation of African-American columnists and commentators who followed in his path, including me," said Clarence Page, a Pulitzer-winning columnist with the Chicago Tribune.
Although he considered himself a liberal, Mr. Raspberry's moderate, nuanced positions on issues including civil rights and gun control garnered criticism from both the right and the left. He was especially concerned with the problems of ordinary people. He told Editor & Publisher magazine in 1994 that reporters could "care about the people they report on and still retain the capacity to tell the story straight."
He taught journalism for more than 10 years at Duke University. A collection of his columns, "Looking Back at Us," was published in 1991.
The son of two teachers, William James Raspberry was born in 1935 in the northeastern Mississippi town of Okolona. He attended Indiana Central College, now the University of Indianapolis, and joined The Post after a stint as a public information officer with the Army.
105 Entries
Valenda Newell
November 6, 2016
Tonya Shepherd
November 21, 2012
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.
September 7, 2012
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.
Kay (Boose) Nowatzki
August 10, 2012
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)
Aurelia Wight
August 4, 2012
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
August 3, 2012
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 .
ARuth Weeks-Marshall
July 29, 2012
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.
Martha
July 29, 2012
I still remember his graduation speech for Patricia's high school commencement. Prayers and thoughts to his family.
Cheryl Boyce
July 29, 2012
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.
Mary Ishimoto Morris
July 29, 2012
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Shonnetta Hill
July 27, 2012
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
BOB STOKES33*
July 27, 2012
It has comforted me some to read many of these messages, to know that a man receives the love he deserves when he gives without judgment. I am thankful to have known Raz in this lifetime. It is a great blessing I will always cherish. To Sondra and the family, you remain in my prayers and will forever. Thank you for sharing him and giving him the joy he so freely shared with the rest of us.
Patrice Gaines
July 27, 2012
The goal is not to live forever on Earth, but to give something to Earth that will last forever. Thank you, Mr. Raspberry. I pray for strength and peace for the family, our community, and everyone with whom this positive, driven, and inspirational man crossed paths. God bless.
Autumn Bankhead
July 26, 2012
"Your best shot at happiness, self-worth and personal satisfaction - the things that constitute real success - is not in earning as much as you can but in performing as well as you can something that you consider worthwhile." ~William Raspberry~
Your inspirational writings will continue to be passed on from generation to generation. Those that have read your work or heard you speak will be influenced until eternity! Thank you for remembering your hometown and creating your vision in Okolona.
Keisha Bogan
July 26, 2012
Mr. Raspberry will be remembered as a great man who defintely gave back, not only to his hometown, but to the world. Our prayers are with you during this time. Thank God for the life and legacy that Mr. Raspberry lived.
--The Staff of Williams Memorial Funeral Home--
Hudson Williams, owner /William Bailey, office mgr
July 26, 2012
Thank for giving use baby step because without them I don't know where I would be they tought me every thing I know so without you I would be lost thank you,love and you will Truely be missed
Cynthia Dye
July 26, 2012
Thank you for all you have done in Okolona
Denise Crape
July 25, 2012
To Hatti,Leah and Cheryl, please know that my family's thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May God continue to hold you in the palm of his hand.
Rita Venable
July 25, 2012
Our hearts are deeply sadden here at Baby Steps, Inc. You really made a difference for the Okolona Community with a caring heart and a deep compassion for the children here. You will truly be missed. We at Baby Steps, Inc. will make sure that your legacy lives on and never die. We will keep your family in our prayers for peace and understanding through this tough time. Thank you Mr. Raspberry for all you have done for Okolona, MS. You will never be forgotten!
Baby Steps Inc. Staff Member
July 25, 2012
Dear Razz,
I am so sorry for the loss of your father. As so many have said before me, your father was not only your role model, but ours as well. So honored to have been along for the journey. Everday was an adventure just waiting to read columns that provoked debates, and open dialogue. What an ICON!
Prayers to you and your family,
Mia Powell Liley and Family
July 25, 2012
Thank you Mr. Raspberry for your courage, compassion and insight. It was a joy and a thought provoking learning experience to read your column.
Marvin McKinney
July 24, 2012
A great man of courage and wit. I was fortunate to know and benefit from the power of his pen and the strength of his character.
Ronald N. Langston
July 23, 2012
Knew him only through his work and a brief talk when he was inducted into the Mississippi Press Association Hall of Fame. An exemplary journalist in every way.
Charlie Mitchell
July 23, 2012
We will miss such a great man. Love to Sondra and family.
Michael & Edna Turner
July 23, 2012
My family knew Mr Raspberry for quite a number of years. My condolences to the family.
Pamela Cheers
July 22, 2012
My family knew Mr Raspberry for quite a number of years. My condolences to the Raspberry family
Pamela Cheers
July 22, 2012
May the love and Peace of God almighty strenghten you and your family on the long days ahead.God cares about you My inspirations will always be abundant because of the life of Mr. Bill may his soul Rest in Peace. I have had the opportunity to Learn from a Legendary soldier. I Thank God first then the Family of Mr. Raspberry for sharing the Light of your Loved one with the world. God Bless you.
Telisa Clark
July 22, 2012
To the Raspberry Family,
Mr. Raspberry was a teacher to all of us. He made us think. How can we make a difference to others. His loving spirit will always be with you.
Barbara Marshall
July 22, 2012
Bonnie and I were deeply saddened to learn of Bill's passing.Please accept our sincere condolences.Our Thoughts and prayers are with the family at this difficult time.
CARLTON ALEXIS
July 22, 2012
barbara cooper miller
July 22, 2012
To the Raspberry Family, I send my condolences for you loss. I miss you and Bill passing my house for your morning walk. Fred Hodo, Jr, Columbus, GA
Fred Hodo Jr
July 21, 2012
Bill was an elementary classmate from our native hometown Okolona MS. Bill's mother Mrs. Raspberry was my schoolteacher elementary through junior high. Without doubt Bill was one of the smartest classmates. I knew Bill would succeed and achieve great things from our small town in Mississippi. My condolences to his mother and entire Raspberry family.
Okolona, MS. Classmate Robert Baker Sr., South Bend, IN.
July 21, 2012
To The Raspberry Family, I extend my condolences for the loss of your loved one. "In the path of righteousness there is life, and the journey in its pathway means no dearh.
Proverbs 12:28
T. L. Williams
July 21, 2012
Dear Raspberry Family,
Thank you so very much for sharing the wise words of this man with the world. He was a beacon whose thoughts shone a light for us all and for generations to come. God bless you all.
Annette Williams
July 21, 2012
Rest in peace and may God keep you close. You will always be missed.
Ina Watson
Ina Watson
July 21, 2012
Saw Bill recently at Politics and Prose. He looked well with a great smile as usual. He shared hiis life in a very special way. We cherished the friendship and will miss him oh so much. Sondra our prayers are with you and the the family.
Geralyn and Henry
Henry Wicker
July 20, 2012
Rest in peace and Thanks for your Concerns of Mankind."The Best is yet to come".
Lawrence Davis Sr.
July 19, 2012
What a wonderful man,and journalist. He will be missed more than you can ever know. He spoke from his heart & soul
Barbara Simonetti
July 19, 2012
condolences to the Raspberry family. His legacy will be how he inspired many to see whatever situation from a different angle. To me, he's a national treasure.
A. Able
July 19, 2012
While attending the U.S. Naval Academy
I read many of Mr. Raspberry's writings. To the family I am sorry for your lose and pray God will give you strength.
Dennis Franklin
July 19, 2012
My deepest condolences to Sondra Raspberry, Bill's mother, children and the rest of the Raspberry family. Bill left a powerful legacy of good works and friendship.
Joyce Ladner
July 19, 2012
May the soul of the Blessed departed rest in peace.
Delois Ward
July 19, 2012
I grew up reading Bill Raspberry's columns, which inspired me to become a journalist myself. I met him early in my career while covering a political event, and again later, as a public affairs professional, when he wrote about my association's college endowment program. Ever humble, he was always helpful, humorous and cordial. Does heaven have cab drivers? I'm sure they'll welcome Bill's arrival. He probably already has a column prepared for publication.
Deborah Harrison
July 19, 2012
So sorry to hear of your family's loss. May you find strength and refuge through our heavenly father who is readily to be found. (Psalms 46:1)
July 19, 2012
TO THIS FAMILY MAY GOD KEEP HIS LOVING ARMS AROUND YOU IN THIS TIME OF SORROW MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY
MS ANNIE MAE WINSTON
July 19, 2012
My condolences to the Raspberry family.
My Mom's favorite Columnist. So much of my world view growing up was shaped through the pen of Mr. Raspberry.
He will be missed.
Delthea Simmons
July 19, 2012
Please,accept my sincere condolences, the passing of a tremendous journalist and educator.Truly he was an outstanding person.Seasoned in objectivity.May he rest in peace.
Martha Bradford
July 19, 2012
My condolences to the Raspberry family.
May God give you comfort and peace during your time of grief.
Respectfully,
Vanessa
July 19, 2012
Rest in peace Mr. Raspberry. May you rejoice in heaven with the angels. To the family, i am deeply saddened for your loss.
Katherine Pinkard
July 19, 2012
Sorry to hear that another great Voice in the world is silenced. An EXCELLENT gentleman with a great "take" on the world around us. He will be missed.
Sheila Martin
July 19, 2012
My mom used to drive to the local bus station to purchase the Washington Post as we did not get the paper in our town. She had us reading William Raspberry from the time I was a little girl, then we would discuss his column. Mr. Raspberry's column was a teacher to me in the 1960's. I was saddened to hear of his transition. My prayers are with his family.
Envy Valentine
July 19, 2012
So sorry to hear Mr. Raspberry had passed away. I always enjoyed reading his thoughts & opinions.
J. Presley
July 19, 2012
Mr. Raspberry was a gentleman. When I was in high school in Virginia I asked
him to come to my high school for Black
History Week. He could not attend but
he did something better and called me
and explained his schedule. It is still
a very touching time in my life. Our
family send their condolences to his
wife and family through this troubling
time. Warm Regards, Patricia McLachlan Simon, Cherry Hill, New Jersey
July 19, 2012
I read Mr. Raspberry's column often. He always had a knack for getting to the point with sound reasoning delivered in a way that common people could understand. He made me see things from a different perspective. He will be sorely missed.
Karen Hulsey
July 19, 2012
Sondra and family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. William will be missed this year on our annual pilgrimage.
Deborah Gilliam
July 18, 2012
A disciplined, informed, and provocative person whose writings called the attention of people across identities and interests.
herrington bryce
July 18, 2012
"My deepest sympathy goes out to the Raspberrys, friends, colleagues ,neighbors and readers on the passing of our beloved William. He was a joy!!!"
Lamont Simmons
July 18, 2012
We have lost one of our strongest voices. For years, I have searched for Mr. Raspberry's column first when reading my newspaper. I often have used his pieces in my English classes as exemplary writing - whether you agreed with him or not, he was a master writer. In fact, he often enlightened and then persuaded me to support his views. He will be missed by so many who loved finding his column upon opening the paper. However, he will live on in my classroom as I continue to share and celebrate his powerful use of our language.
Ruthie Warren
July 18, 2012
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
LAMONT STANKWICH
July 18, 2012
To the Raspberry Family I offer my most sincere condolences & pray God's comfort covers & strengthens you each day. May you honor his memory by living as he did...shedding light on the truth & enlightening others! God Bless!!
DeLinda D Davis
July 18, 2012
A true loss to his profession and the readers who care about thoughtful journalism.
Edie Patterson
July 18, 2012
Rest in peace William.
Tonya Shepherd, President
The Sorcerer's Purse
July 18, 2012
To the family of William Raspberry may God give you comfort and peace by means of prayer - Philipians 4:6,7. My deepest sympathy
July 18, 2012
jerry jacobs sr
July 18, 2012
So sorry to hear of the transition of Bro. Raspberry. I had the honor of knowing him while singing in the Trinity Episcopal Church choir in DC. He was a true inspiration. I especially loved his sense of humor and he loved the tune "Round Midnight" by Monk.
Kehembe V Eichelberger
July 18, 2012
William Raspberry was a very special journalist; I don't believe he ever wrote a bad column. Inspiring, logical, informative and a joy to read. A great loss, but we're fortunate that his words will live on to inspire others. The subjects he chose will always need his steady hand to interpret.
Sincere condolences
paulette carollo
July 18, 2012
He had class.
July 18, 2012
To the Family of William Raspberry, so sorry for your loss. It is a wonderful things to use "Paper and Pen" to inspire people. The ability to use word to move people to think, especially in critical times. May you find comfort in Gods' word which motivates our heart and mind to consider the times we are living in at 2 Tim.3:1-5 and the answer to those time at Dan.2:44. Please read
Teresa
July 18, 2012
R.I.P.
July 18, 2012
Frank & Naida Rasbury are distraught to learn of the passing of Cousin Bill. Deepest condolences to Sondra, their kids and the rest of the Raspberry family.
Ocala, Florida
July 18, 2012
The values of Bill Raspberry inspired us. He cared about kids and education and the underserved and never wavered. I am so lucky he was my friend as all who know him feel as he made us think, laugh and ignate our own commitments to give back. Legacy is huge from Bill to all of us. Edie Fraser
Edie Fraser
July 18, 2012
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
l p(rev.21:4)
July 18, 2012
You will surly be missed.
Linda Christmas
July 18, 2012
We will miss your common sense and skilled writing. RIP, Mr. Raspberry. Deepest condolences to your family, friends, admirers and colleagues.
ER
July 18, 2012
Rest in Peace Mr. Raspberry...
Helen Sanders
July 18, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Cynthia Stewart
July 18, 2012
With our deepest condolences, to The
Raspberry Family.
John 11: 1-44
Mary Kanada
July 18, 2012
Really enjoyed reading Mr. Raspberry's columns over the years. May God be with his family at this time and forever more.
Elvira Jefferson Clegg
July 18, 2012
Dear Mrs. Raspberry and Family,
"May God bless you and keep you. May God make his face shine upon you...and assign peace to you."(Numbers 6:24-26)
Mr. Bill will be missed. Sorry for your loss.
Emma Jean
July 18, 2012
Remembering your great love story today and always.
July 18, 2012
To the family: May the God of all comfort comfort you as you move forward during this time of grief. My deepest sympathy.
July 18, 2012
Our sentiments to
WILLIAM RASPBERRY
Thank you for your Articles
of WashintonPost/
As the Fray was read as is..
Witty humor The venue continues
with the news of the WASHINGTON POST)
Victoria&Andrew ~:~
July 18, 2012
Good men don't come along like this everyday. May the good Lord be with your family.
Lisa Lee-Cooney
July 18, 2012
With sincere condolences to the Raspberry family during your time of grief...Psalm 46:1 "God is for us a refuge and strength, A help that is readily to be found during difficult times". May God (John 17:3) provide you with peace and comfort to endure the days ahead.
Woods
July 17, 2012
Mr. Raspberry's column was one of the first columns I rushed to read whenever they appeared in our local newspaper. His columns were based on facts and common sense. This helped many of us to better understand social issues which affected our daily lives. We will miss his wisdom and his words but we have great memories of a fearless writer who shared his views with the world.
Charles Varner
July 17, 2012
Dear Sondra and family: as you know, Bob and Barbara Gale are no doubt raising a glass with Bill right now. Some party it must be! Love, morgan Gale and family.
Morgan Gale
July 17, 2012
To Uncle Bill,
Thank you for sharing your life and words with us.
To Auntie Sandra, Razz and the whole fam, our love, peace and blessings to you. You have family in Central VA. All of our love always, M, M, M & O
Nazeer Family
July 17, 2012
Mr. Raspberry was an outstanding journalist who wrote with such impeccable clarity and style. He was a blessing to his readers. May he rest in peace.
Diane
July 17, 2012
To the family of William Raspberry. I enjoyed reading his columns and will truly miss his excellent views on the different topics that he wrote about. May God bless you during this time of sorrow.
Viola Johnson
July 17, 2012
nathaniel thomas
July 17, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Mary Green
July 17, 2012
I enjoyed his columns so much especially when he talked to the cab drivers. You have my condolences
Tyra Broadway
July 17, 2012
Sondra and Family, Sorry to hear about William. So many will miss him. An enormous group of his followers can share wonderful accounts and loving experiences and stories about William. He helped a lot of from all walks of life. When he talked they listen. His voice might be silent now, but his memories live on in people all around the world. Sincerely.
July 17, 2012
May God continue to bless you and strengthen you thru this trying time. I also pray that the words of wisdom that he shared will be a help to the family members in years to come.
Teala Quarterman
July 17, 2012
My sincerest sympathy to the Raspberry family. I was born in Washington, DC 1945 and lived there for several decades. I was very familiar with his columns during the time I lived in MD. He was a highly regarded columnist and his voice will be missed.
Joanne Jordan
July 17, 2012
God only picks the best. The best was truly seasoned, and GOD was ready. May the family find peace at a time such as this. GOD BLESS!
July 17, 2012
To the family and friends of William,
My deepest sympathy to you during this time. May you have peace from God who comforts all those who mourn and soon will wipe every tear from our eyes.
Juanita White
July 17, 2012
Please accept my sincere condolences upon the passing of a good man and excellent journalist.
Balanced and objective. A disappearing breed, unfortunately. I always enjoyed and appreciated his views. Even if I did not totally agree with Mr. Raspberry, I could relate to his view point. That's a gift that he had.
Thank you, sir!
Keith Singleton
July 17, 2012
Mr. Raspberry's columns helped me think about and understand issues differently. I always looked for his byline, and I miss his writing.
Cal Horton
July 17, 2012
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