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Julius Chambers Obituary
A statement issued by his law firm, Ferguson Chambers & Sumter, said Chambers died Friday after months of declining health. A specific cause of death wasn't given.
"Mr. Chambers was not the first lawyer of color to try to address the issues of equality," firm partner Geraldine Sumter said Saturday. "He would tell you he had people like Buddy Malone of Durham that he looked to, the Kennedys out of Winston-Salem. The thing that Mr. Chambers brought to that struggle was a very focused, determined attitude that things were going to change."
The North Carolina chapter of the NAACP called Chambers "a man of tremendous courage."
"His home and his car were firebombed on separate occasions in 1965, and his office was burned to the ground in 1971, during the height of some of his most contentious civil rights litigation in North Carolina," the NAACP said in a statement.
North Carolina Attorney General Roy Cooper called Chambers "a friend who set a courageous example of doing what is right regardless of the cost."
In 1964, Chambers opened a law practice that became the state's first integrated law firm. He and his partners won cases that shaped civil rights law, including Swann v. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education regarding school busing.
The 1971 ruling in the case mandated crosstown busing and highlighted the power of federal courts to intervene when local public school systems hedged en route to full integration. The case came as then-Gov. Bob Scott had just taken office. Although Chambers won the case, Scott had already pledged that he wouldn't allow state money to be spent for busing.
"Chambers probably, being one of those lawyers rooted in the South, was able to see the inequities more clearly because they were so stark here in the late 60s and '70s," Sumter said.
The Charlotte Observer reports that Chambers took eight cases before the U.S. Supreme Court and won them all.
Born and raised in Mt. Gilead, Chambers was the third of four children. He came to what was known then as North Carolina College at Durham in 1954 and graduated summa cum laude in 1958. Chambers received a Master of Arts degree in history from the University of Michigan and studied law at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he received the LLB degree with high honors in 1962 and was admitted to the North Carolina bar.
Chambers also served as chancellor of his alma mater, North Carolina Central University, from 1993 to 2001.
Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
232 Entries
Porter Bankhead
July 25, 2025
Attorney Chambers advised alumni on the status of South Carolina State University in the duplicity programs constraining the university's standing. He encouraged a united effort needed to implement programs beneficial to constituents of the State thru the University and offered his availability in any such drive.
October 9, 2019
Miss you, still.
Colleen Boggess
February 4, 2019
I would like the family to know that the powerful message Mr. Chambers left is not forgotten. Mt. Gilead, NC museum is working on an exhibit to honor his contribution to history and humanity.
October 6, 2018
It is hard to believe that five years have passed without you. Your light shines within during this time of darkness for this country you loved and made better.
How you can show support
Barbara Hudgins
November 24, 2016
Your legacy is one of which we can all be proud. You are etched in our memory like a beautiful dream. Thank you for your efforts and dedication to so many meaningful causes on behalf of us all. Sincerely, Barbara Lyon Hudgins - NCCU Class of '59
October 6, 2016
You are missed so much, so often and so much more with each passing day. Thinking of you on your 80th.
Howard Fink
August 24, 2016
Julius Chambers filed and tried Coppedge vs. Franklin County, one of the cases that resulted in the down fall of Freedom of Choice,North Carolina's legal barrier to desegregation of it' public schools.Mr Chambers was quietly brilliant. He was was brave. He won the case and my admiration and respect.When the American Bar Association decided to write a major article in 2004 on the unsung legal hero of school desegregation I did not hesitate-I recommended Julius because he was the clear choice. I will always be proud to have participated with him. I hope his family and friends know how highly other lawyers thought of him-Respectfully, Judge Howard Lewis Fink(Ret.)and
United States Justice Department attorney assigned to Civil Rights Division
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Valenda Newell
July 15, 2016
This exceptional man was an accomplished scholar and soooooo COURAGEOUS in the early days of the CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT. His relentless drive as a attorney no other could match. THANKS FOR ONE'S HARD WORK.......RIP
October 6, 2015
Remembering your quiet genius and finding comfort in memories of your gentle encouragement.. Your soul lives on. Happy 79th.
October 6, 2014
Thinking about and missing you on what would have been your 78th birthday.
January 27, 2014
You continue to be loved deeply and missed tremendously. I hold you in my heart forever.
James Harrington, Jr
August 16, 2013
To the family of Chancellor Julius L. Chambers, my sincere condolences during this time. Chancellor Chambers was my Chancellor at Dear 'Ol NCC during his last two year (99-01) and I saw first hand his unswerving leadership over the university. His guidance, brilliance, and exemplary attitude will be missed. I was honored to have met him.
Bernice B. Mayes
August 13, 2013
"Rest In Peace", my good friend of many years. And my prayers and condolences go out to your entire family.
August 13, 2013
To The Chambers Family:
I celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Julius L. Chambers with you. He was indeed a man of the people and used his talents for the betterment of humanity. His is a legacy that shall speak to generations yet to be born. I am thankful that God allowed Dr. Chambers to come our way and has given to him "his crown of righteousness". Please know I am keeping you in my prayers.
Sincerely,
The Reverend Edith M. Shokes
Atlanta, Georgia
Peggy R. Henry-Watkins
August 13, 2013
To: The Chambers Family
Attorney Chambers touched the lives of all
Americans. He was an awesome person. Also, Julius used his outstanding knowledge and skills for civil & individual rights. The country we will live in... is a better place because of such a great man. My prayers will always be with the family!
Sonja Brown
August 12, 2013
What an awesome, hardworking man. Your journey on this earth has been great. With all due respect, rest in peace fellow Eagle. 1978'
Janice Harper
August 12, 2013
Chancellor Chambers exemplified the meaning of North Carolina Central University's Motto "Truth and Service". His legacy of leadership and service will be guiding light for future generations. I thank God for his life and the wonderful words of wisdom that he shared with everyone he encountered.
Beverly Irby
August 11, 2013
Condolensces to entire Chambers Family.
William C Peoples Jr
August 11, 2013
The life MR.Chambers lived and work he did spoke for him. We are going to miss him very much.Look to hills family
William Turner
August 9, 2013
How appropriate some words from Longfellow when we think of Mr. Julius Chambers: Lives of great men all remind us
We can make our lives sublime,
And, departing, leave behind us
Footprints on the sands of time.
-Bill & Vivian Turner
Shawna McCaden
August 9, 2013
Chancellor Chambers
Thank you for your service and words of encouragement. I will never forget the words you gave to me when I was a graduate student at NCCU. It reminds me,"where there is a will there is a way."
May blessings of comfort be with your family during this time.
With Great Respect,
Shawna, NCCU Class of 98'
Dr. Wayne X. Davenport Sr.
August 9, 2013
To the family of Julius Chambers and the people of Charlotte,North Carolina,United States and the world. A great man,a warrior has passed and we all has all who love doing what right and just have lost a champion. May we honor his works and endeavors by rising up to meet the goals he set and fullfilling the races he laid out for us. By the grace of our creator may his light forever shine on us.
M
August 9, 2013
He was simply my hero.
vrj
August 9, 2013
I will never forget the kindness of Mr. Chambers as an employer. Hiring me right out of college and guiding me as he let me go along with him to various PAC meetings to support the local African-American candidates, I learned so much about activism and how working behind the scene is just as important as being in front of it. Thank you, Mr. Chambers.
Tommie L. Campbell
August 9, 2013
Deepest Sympathy to the Chambers Family
Reever White
August 9, 2013
I am so thankful for the path Mr. Chambers paved for me and others. I wish your family peace in your time of sorrow and may GOD rest his soul......Reever White
Glen Webb
August 8, 2013
I spent a lot of time with Dr. Chambers from 2008 until 2010. I met him as a stranger and we became really close really fast. I went from sitting in his office telling him about a case to meeting him on Saturdays and him leaving me in his office alone...he say "work on this and I'll be back to pick you up for lunch"...He was one of the most humble people I've ever met. I'm sorry for your loss but I'm happy to have met him...for he changed my life forever...
Frederick Terry
August 8, 2013
We were deeply sadden to learn of the death of my dear friend and fraternity brother Julius Chambers. Having known him since he was a student at North Carolina Central, our fraternal bonds of Alpha Phi Alpha will always bring fond memories.
The Rev Dr. & Mrs. Frederick D. Terry
Saint Petersburg, FL
Ed & Lynne Boswell
August 8, 2013
We had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Chambers this past year when we moved to Charlotte. What an accomplished life, and what a lovely man and neighbor. Judy, our condolences to you and your family.
valarie Camp
August 8, 2013
What a great legend.Mr Chambers was a household name asi grew up.Remember all the history as we tread our way through the sixties and seventies. His work was well done. Now he shall receive his just reward. Well done Mr. Chambers "Rest In Peace." The Camps
SANDRA OWENS
August 8, 2013
HOW HAPPY I AM THAT JULIUS CHAMBERS HONORED "WE, THE PEOPLE" WITH HIS LIFE ...
I CANNOT IMAGINE A BETTER CITIZEN MODEL...
THANK YOU AGAIN DR.CHAMBERS....
Patricia Jones
August 8, 2013
Chambers family, may you feel the comfort of God at this time.
Mildred Williams-Smith
August 8, 2013
I was shocked and saddened on hearing of the passing of Attorney Chambers. I have followed his career and all the wonderful things he accomplished in the civil rights arena. I met him through his brother as he was about to graduate from UNC's Law School in l962 (I typed his last paper for him), and found him to be a strong, yet gentle personality. We will all miss him! God's blessings to the family.
Prayerfully,
Mildred Williams Smith
Tony D Muhammad
August 8, 2013
Julius Chambers defended my Aunt Judge Judith M Daniels as she persuaded her goal in representing the people of Robeson County. Julius Chambers was always on the battlefield for injustice for the poor and voiceless.
Mickey Key
August 8, 2013
I loved this man's courage. He made life better for all among us in all communities with dignity and fairnes that should be an example to each of us.
Carl Yarbor
August 8, 2013
You where a Champion for Justice, Thank You
Pamela Shropshire
August 8, 2013
When I think about how equality came to pass in Charlotte I automatically think on Mr. Chambers, what a great man of honor, am very proud to have lived to see him in action. May the peace of God sustain you during this time.
Rachel Stockton
August 8, 2013
Mr. Chambers has left a memorable legacy for all regarding civil rights.
May God comfort the family during the loss.
Lesa Pinkston Horne
August 8, 2013
Thank you, Attorney Julius Chambers.
Elizabeth Bourne
August 8, 2013
Judy, we will be in prayer for you and your family. Your dad will be greatly missed.
Elizabeth "Libby" Bourne & Family
August 8, 2013
I had the pleasure of attending NCCU when Mr. Chambers was the chancellor. I am honored to have shared his presence! May God Bless your family during this time.
August 8, 2013
Growing up in a Charlotte Observer family in the 1950s and '60s, we would often hear the names of a broad array of political, business, educational and journalistic leaders in and around the Queen City.
But it didn't take long to learn that when you heard the name of Julius Chambers, then that definitely had something to do with the major developing subject of civil rights.
Even when I moved to Durham to cover city and county government for the Durham Herald in 1970, I became aware of the significant fact that Julius Chambers had been there previously as a promising student at North Carolina Central. Then years later he would return for a leadership "curtain call" as chancellor of NCCU.
But then folks around the Triangle region of North Carolina also knew of "Chambers" in his capacity as a much respected faculty member of the UNC Law School in Chapel Hill.
So even though I was away from my Charlotte hometown more of my life than I would have preferred, one thing's for sure: the civil rights leadership legacy of Julius Chamber forged a broad path in the movement for individual opportunity and social progress all across North Carolina and beyond the borders of this state.
In these days, therefore, it is understandable and natural that an abundance of gratitude and appreciation is being extended from so many quarters to the Chambers family as well as to his dedicated circle of professional friendships.
David P. McKnight
Durham, N.C.
August 8, 2013
I do extend my condolences to the Chambers family on the loss of a giant in history. Be thankful that God allowed each of us to benefit from the life of Mr. Chambers. Derrick, hold your head up and be forever proud. Mariam Ray Knox
Odell Wilson
August 8, 2013
I wish I had met Mr. Chambers so I could have said a BIG THANK YOU for the work on behave of ALL the OTR drivers like me!! My prayer goes out to his family.
Chris Simmons
August 8, 2013
A true Champion of Justice. RIP
August 8, 2013
The world is much better because of you, Attorney Chambers. Thank God for His blessing. We love you family.
Richard C.and Mary Ann Freeman Moore
Audra Gwinn
August 8, 2013
I never had the opportunity to meet Julius Chambers personally, but wish I could have. I would like say to the family & his friends,that I am thankful for all Julius endured in order to make a difference in our community and the world. My heart goes out to you and I will keep you in thoughts and prayers.
Cheryl Falzone
August 8, 2013
My heart is with the family of Attorney Chambers...May God bless and give you peace...Thank you for sharing such a powerful Man with the world.
Kim Seegars
August 8, 2013
Thank you Mr. Chambers for fighting for equality for everyone. You were one of the true soldiers during the Civil Rights Movement. R.I.P.
Cassandra Sadler
August 8, 2013
As a native Charlottean,I must say I am proud to have had Mr. Julius Chambers as one of the greatest leaders our city will ever have. Your niece Senetra and I graduated from the same high school, I graduated a year before her, but it was nice to know that I attended high school with the niece of such a prominent person. Thanks Mr. Chambers for all that you have done for us. We will truly miss you.
Belinda Staten
August 8, 2013
Thank you, for your guidance, dedication to higher education and to courageous fight for justice and civil rights.
Robin Green
August 8, 2013
Sorry for your loss, heavens gain. I'm glad to have met Mr.. Chambers
Elliott Willingham
August 8, 2013
As a member of a group of students on fellowship studying at Columbia University in 1991, we came upon the offices of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund while returning from another destination. We walked in, fully expecting to express a word of thanks for the work that the organization does and to continue on our way. As it were, Atty. Chambers was in the office that morning and stopped what he was doing, spoke with us, inquired about our studies, and gave us parting words of wisdom. He did not have to do this, as I am sure there were many things going on at the time. This simple kindness and many others over a lifetime speak volumes. Thank you for a lifetime of service and the example that you have set for us all as we strive upwards and onwards.
August 8, 2013
I did not know Mr. Chambers but reading his obituary in the New York Times, I was struck by his years of steady work to overturn restrictions on civil rights. His life was of the best of us and I hope his family can take courage from his achievements. Our country is better because of his struggle to right wrong.
Robert stephens
August 8, 2013
May god bless and be with the family at this time and sorrow- classmate 1958.
Henry Little
August 8, 2013
Thank you very much for you work on Justice in America USA.
Michael Hall
August 8, 2013
Thanks so very much for all you have done for mankind. We are stronger for you having been here. Thank God I shared the earth in your time. Peace to your family.
Cynthia Richardson
August 8, 2013
I did not know Mr. Chambers, however I want to take the time to say Thank you for all you done to advocate for the underserved. You were truly a champion for the people.
LaDerrick Bullock
August 8, 2013
Thank you to the Chambers family for allowing me and so many others to share in the light that was Julius Chambers
May God Bless You
Dawn Cuffie
August 8, 2013
Mr. Chambers served as my chancellor during my time at NCCU. He was a great man. My prayers are with your family.
Mattie Brown and Patricia (Diane) Hockaday-Blount
August 8, 2013
Our condolences to the Chambers Family. In the Roanoke Valley {home of J.P. Stevens Mill} Julius was our "Champion for Justice". The quiet, unassuming, caring gentleman fought our battles in court and brought justice and hope to generations of families. Many of the lawyers and judges in the Roanoke Valley were inspired by Julius.
My family will always treasure the fond memories with Vivian and Julius over the years. May you both rest in peace!
August 8, 2013
We are very sorry for the passing of your father and our prayers are with you and your family.
Clerk of court in Durham county
Valarie Prue
August 8, 2013
I did not know Mr. Chambers but speaking as an Afro American woman, I want to praise his life and show my gratitude for one who helped pave the way and improve our ability to achieve the American Dream. May God Bless him and his family.
L J (Scotty) Henderson IV
August 8, 2013
Derrick and Judy, know that we are praying for you as you deal with Uncle Levon's passing. May the peace of the Lord keep and sustain you as you go through this trying time.
Evelyn Dove-Coleman
August 8, 2013
Chambers Family:
Few men are truly great. Julius Chambers was a mountain of greatness who whispered wisdom.
Wanda Wakefield
August 7, 2013
May God bless and be with the family at this time of loss and sorrow. Mr. Chambers was a great leader of the people and will be missed. Thank you Mr. Chambers, for your hard work,dedication, and your fight for the civil rights of African Americans.
Rest in peace with your beautiful wife.
-Wanda and Skyeler Wakefield
Third Wards Kitchen
August 7, 2013
To The (Judy)Chambers Family,
Our Prayer and Condolences to the Family of Mr. Julius Chambers
Angela E Williams
August 7, 2013
Thank you Mr. Chambers for paving the way for me and mine. May you R.I.P Sir!
Alton & Michelle Hunnicutt
August 7, 2013
Derrick,Judy, Margaret May God give you strength during this time of bereavement..
Daniele Gaither
August 7, 2013
Derrick and Judy, our thoughts and prayers are with you. May your hearts soon be filled with joyful memories of a life well lived.
Cousin Daniele
Henri A. LeGendre
August 7, 2013
A "GIANT" is gone. May he R.I.P
August 7, 2013
Thank you for your service to NCCU and the citizens of the world just as Dr. James E. Shepherd wanted "in truth and service." Betty Holloway, NJ Chapter NCCU Alumni Association
Cheryl Roseborough-Zimmerman
August 7, 2013
Thank you for teaching us to fight for what we believe in and continue to push for equalities. Thank you, Attorney Julius L. Chambers.
John Blunt
August 7, 2013
A great loss. As a television reporter, I covered some of the civil rights battles fought by Julius Chambers in the late 60's and early 70's. I also got to know both he and his brother, Dr. Kenneth Chambers. I am profoundly moved by his passing.
Eric Lowe
August 7, 2013
Thank you!
T B
August 7, 2013
Thank our good and great Lord for people like Mr. Chambers. Thanks to people like him, I grew up (late late 60's, 7o's, and 80's not even realizing that having friends that were black was once a controversial thing (until I was older and learned history). My friends and I were not hasseled or made to feel better than the other due to "old ways". God bless all who trailblazed the first mile, we have a long way to go in race relations, but we have come very far thanks to many Civil Rights era heroes!
Theresa Dennis
August 7, 2013
To Dr. Kenneth Chambers, Judy, Derrick & the entire Chambers family:
Someone so special can never be forgotten. May it comfort you to remember the strength and wisdom that Dr. Julius Levonne Chambers brought to you and others and the unconditional love he shared during his life. Let the love that surrounds you be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Take strength in your memories and have faith in tomorrow. You are in my thoughts and prayers. God will take care of you.
Bryon Tinnin
August 7, 2013
Derrick,
I am sorry to hear of your father's passing. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless.
Faye Bowser Phillips
August 7, 2013
The Chambers Family
The world was made a better place because Julius Chambers passed this way.
May God's Grace and Mercy be with each of you as they were with Julius.
Dave Brown
August 7, 2013
Julius was my next door neighbor at ChapelWatch for the last 6 years. It was an honor to get know him and Vivian. He had remarkable legacy and an understated demeanor. He treated you as a genuine friend. May God bless Judy and all of the Chambers' family.
Faye Bowser Phillips
August 7, 2013
To the Chambers Family,
The world was made a better place because Julius Chambers passed this way.
May God's Grace and Mercy be with each of you as it was with Julius.
Irene Tyson
August 7, 2013
Remembering a great man, you will be missed....My prayers and condolences to the family of Mr. Julius Chambers. I had the pleasure of meeting him many, many years ago. What a man of great strength. He was a man that stood firm and dedicated to a cause that he believed in. As we can say for Dr. Martin Luther King, there will never be another Julius Chambers. I truly commend you for a job well done. Rest in peace, Mr. Chambers. May God continue to bless your family, until you meet again.
Kim Riley
August 6, 2013
RIP Julius Chambers
Willette Tyson
August 6, 2013
Our prayers are with cousin Ken, Judy, Derrick and family. RIP
Julius Chambers. You will always be in our hearts. Love
Carl Cuthbertson
August 6, 2013
God bless the Chambers family at this time of sorrow. I had the honor of meeting Mr Chambers and working with him on a discrimination case in the mid 1970,s and what a brilliant attorney he was. He had a courtroom manner that amazing to see. He was a giant among giants. We kept in touch from time to time through the years and it was always a pleasure to hear from him. His legacy will live on through the many lives he has touched. The nation is a better place because of the work of Julius L.Chambers. Rest in peace my friend.
Winslow Mellis
August 6, 2013
On behalf of the Mellis family we are deeply saddened by the passing of such an icon as Dr.Julius Chambers. May God comfort you his family at this time and always.With deepest sympathy.
Catherine Adams
August 6, 2013
Dr. Chambers...Thank you for the fight, thank you for the change and above all thank you for a job well done. Rest In Peace
Gloria Burnett
August 6, 2013
Dr Chambers was truly a fighter for civil rights. I hired him in a traffic case and he won the case for me. I am deeply saddened by his death. My thoughts and prayers to his family.
Byron McCormick
August 6, 2013
Thank you Mr. Chambers; I am a network/systems administrator; it would not been possible without your help.
Thank you and God bless your family!
Travis Ziglar
August 6, 2013
May God bless the Chambers family @ this time.May you find comfort in knowing that your love one,Mr.Chambers is @ peace & is resting the arms of Jesus.Praying that God will wrap you in His loving care & will continue bless you this day & always.
August 6, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with you judy and derrick. Take care of yourself. Angela Glenn-Betts
Charles Wilson
August 6, 2013
Thank you Atty. Chambers for the work you did that I benefit and my childrens children will continue to benefit from in the future. Fifty years ago my parents enrolled me in all black University Park Elem. School. Through your work, I graduated from an intergrated nationally acclaimed West Charlotte High Class of 1976.
GOD Has Blessed Us Through Your Work!
Struggy Smith
August 6, 2013
My sincere condolences to the Chambers family. May God guide and direct you during these difficult times. Just hang on to God's unchanging hands. Thank you for all the things you did to assist people throughout this country and the iconic position you held in the legal field. Your legacy will live forever. Rest in Peace!!!!!!!!!!!!!
A. Scott
August 6, 2013
My condolenses to the Chambers family. Dr. Chambers transformed many communities in this state. He was truly a pioneer and great Chancellor. RIP Dr. "C"!
Elaine Washington-Guy
August 6, 2013
Judy and Derek,
Sorry to hear about your dad. He was always someone for us to aspire to be like. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. Rest in Peace Mr. Chambers.
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