Written by Tanya Terry, with photo provided by LaDon McNeil
Grant Street in Flint, will be renamed Rev. Dr. Lewis Randolph Street to honor the legendary pastor and community leader’s more than four decades of faith, service, and community impact. The honorary street renaming ceremony will take place at on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church located at 1083 E. Stewart Avenue, where Rev. Dr. Randolph faithfully served as pastor for over 41 years.
Rev. Dr. Michael Pettigrew, pastor of St. Paul Baptist Church, reflected on the significance of this tribute, describing how Rev. Dr. Randolph devoted his life to serving God, uplifting families, mentoring young people, and building a stronger Flint community. He noted Randolph’s leadership extended beyond the church into education, healthcare, economic development, youth mentorship, anti-violence efforts, and spiritual leadership.
Pettigrew stated: “Rev. Dr. Lewis Randolph was more than a pastor; he was a statesman of the faith community, a mentor to pastors, and a tireless advocate for the people of Flint. His leadership extended beyond the walls of the church and into every corner of our community. He demonstrated what it means to lead with conviction, compassion and humility. This street naming is a fitting tribute to a man whose life exemplified servant leadership and whose legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.”
Rev. Dr. Randolph’s role as president of Concerned Pastors for Social Action lasted over a decade until approximately 2013, where he was respected by businesses, banks, city administration, law enforcement, prosecutors and the general public. He organized anti-violence rallies and prayer services that brought together Black and white communities to address crime and racial divisions in Flint. Randolph emphasized the importance of voting, family life and breaking down racial barriers, calling on all people to work together as one community to solve Flint’s problems.
Marcus Randolph, family representative, also spoke about the importance of the street renaming.
He stated: “For our family, this moment is deeply humbling and profoundly meaningful. Rev. Dr. Lewis Randolph devoted his life to serving God, uplifting families, mentoring young people, and helping build a stronger Flint community. To see his name permanently placed on a street in the city he loved is more than an honor—it is a reminder that a life dedicated to service can leave footprints that never fade. We are grateful that future generations will see his name and ask about the man whose faith, compassion and leadership touched so many lives.”
