Civil Rights Activist Bishop Calvin Woods Sr. dies
Birmingham Loses a Civil Rights Giant: Bishop Calvin Woods Sr. Passes Away at 91
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Civil Rights Activist Bishop Calvin Woods Sr. has passed away at the age of 91, as confirmed by his family. Woods led the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) until his retirement in 2022, a role he assumed from his late brother, Reverend Abraham Woods. Both siblings were pivotal figures in the Birmingham Civil Rights Movement and co-founded the Alabama Christian Movement for Human Rights alongside Reverend Fred Shuttlesworth.
Throughout his life, Calvin Woods was known as a powerful advocate against racism and violence, providing a consistent voice for justice in the community. His legacy extends beyond activism; he was also a dedicated family man with ten children, among them businessman and former Birmingham mayoral candidate Chris Woods. His grandchildren include Birmingham City Councilman Clinton Woods and Rock City Church Pastor Mike McClure Jr., highlighting the Woods family’s influence in various spheres of Birmingham’s civic and cultural life.
In a heartfelt interview with WBRC’s Mike Dubberly in February 2025, Woods expressed his desire to be remembered not only for his leadership but also for instilling love among all people, regardless of their circumstances. His commitment to faith and hope will continue to resonate in the community he tirelessly served.
Read the complete article here: https://www.wbrc.com/2025/08/16/civil-rights-activist-reverend-calvin-woods-sr-dies/
