[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 5 (Thursday, January 8, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E13]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        TRIBUTE TO REVEREND WILLIAM JAMES ``W.J.'' FRIERSON, SR.

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. JAMES E. CLYBURN

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, January 8, 2026

  Mr. CLYBURN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy 
of a devoted public servant, respected minister, and trusted community 
leader whose faithful service to Clarendon County and the people of 
South Carolina spanned more than three decades. Reverend William James 
``W.J.'' Frierson, Sr. transitioned on December 26, 2025, leaving 
behind a legacy defined by faith, integrity, and an unwavering 
commitment to service.
  Born on July 8, 1953, in Manning, South Carolina, W.J. Frierson was 
raised in a family grounded in faith, hard work, and community 
responsibility. As a young man, he accepted Christ and became an active 
member of Green Hill Missionary Baptist Church, where he answered his 
call to the ministry and began a long journey of service within the 
church and beyond.
  Over the years, he faithfully served in numerous roles, including 
choir member, sexton, trustee, ordained deacon, and ordained associate 
minister, building a foundation of spiritual leadership that would 
guide every aspect of his life. Most recently, W.J. Frierson pastored 
Lovely Hill Baptist Church in Holly Hill for 18 years, shepherding his 
congregation with compassion and wisdom.
  Reverend Frierson was equally committed to education and self-
improvement. A 1971 graduate of Manning High School, he pursued higher 
education at Texas College, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 
Physical Education and Biology. He continued his Christian education 
through the Sumter Baptist M&E Association and Morris College, 
preparing himself to serve not only as a pastor, but as a thoughtful 
and compassionate leader equipped to guide others.
  In 1995, W.J. Frierson began what would become a historic tenure on 
Clarendon County Council and represented Council District Two for 
thirty years. During his service, he was known for his steady 
leadership, thoughtful deliberation, and deep concern for the well-
being of all residents. He approached public office not as a position 
of power, but as an extension of his ministry--listening carefully, 
advocating tirelessly, and always seeking to do what was right rather 
than what was easy. His colleagues and constituents respected him for 
his integrity, humility, and willingness to work through differences 
for the good of the county.
  Beyond elected office, Reverend Frierson was deeply engaged in civic 
and community organizations. He was affiliated with Prince Hall Masons 
as a member of Red Hill Lodge No. 144, the Manning Branch of the NAACP, 
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and numerous educational and faith-
based boards and councils. Professionally, he dedicated more than three 
decades as Human Resources Manager at Century Aluminum, retiring in 
2013.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues join me in honoring 
the memory of Reverend William James ``W.J.'' Frierson, Sr.--a servant 
of God, a servant of the people, and a pillar of his community. He was 
a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and a 
mentor to countless individuals who will carry his lessons forward. 
``W.J.'' was a man whose life reflected his faith, whose leadership 
strengthened his community, and whose legacy will endure.

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