SAD NEWS: Legendary Cardinals and Negro Leagues Pitcher Bill Greason’s Family Announces Urgent Update at Age 100
Bill Greason, a revered figure in baseball history and the oldest living Negro Leagues player, has recently been the subject of urgent news announced by his family in Alabama. At the remarkable age of 100, Greason’s legacy spans not only the baseball diamond but also military service and spiritual leadership, making this news deeply impactful to his many followers and admirers.
Bill Greason was born on September 3, 1924, in Atlanta, Georgia. He rose to prominence as a star pitcher for the Birmingham Black Barons, a key team in the Negro Leagues, where he played alongside legendary figures such as Willie Mays. Greason helped lead the Black Barons to the Negro Leagues World Series in 1948, showcasing his exceptional talent and competitive spirit.
Beyond baseball, Greason served honorably as a U.S. Marine in World War II, fighting at the Battle of Iwo Jima. The harrowing experiences of war, including witnessing the deaths of close friends, profoundly shaped his life and faith. He later fulfilled a vow he made during the war by dedicating himself to ministry, becoming a pastor at Bethel Baptist Church in Birmingham in 1971, where he preached for over 50 years.
Greason’s baseball career also marked significant milestones in racial integration. He was the first African-American pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals in 1954 and one of the first black minor-leaguers in Oklahoma. Despite facing segregation and discrimination, Greason persevered, playing professionally until his retirement in 1959.
His 100th birthday was celebrated with great admiration at Rickwood Field in Birmingham, the oldest ballpark in the United States and a historic site for Negro Leagues baseball. The celebration included a ceremonial trip around the bases, where Greason recounted his life story, and was attended by family, friends, fellow veterans, and Negro Leagues legends. This event also highlighted his enduring pride in the Negro Leagues and the contributions of Black baseball players who paved the way for future generations.
Greason’s family recently shared urgent news about his current condition, which has deeply saddened his followers. While specific details have not been disclosed publicly, the announcement marks a poignant moment for those who have long admired his resilience, faith, and contributions to sports and society.
Bill Greason’s life is a testament to courage, perseverance, and dedication. From the baseball fields of the Negro Leagues to the battlefields of World War II, and finally to the pulpit where he inspired countless souls, his story embodies the spirit of a century lived with purpose and grace. His legacy continues to inspire, reminding us of the profound impact one individual can have across multiple spheres of life.
As the community rallies around Greason and his family during this difficult time, his remarkable journey remains a beacon of hope and a powerful reminder of the history and progress of African-American athletes and veterans in America.
