Rev. Dr. Phillip D. Washington

Rev. Dr. Phillip D. Washington—a devoted servant of God, a visionary leader, a mentor, and a beloved husband, son, brother, father, and grandfather. His journey on this earth ended on March 15, 2025, but the impact of his love, wisdom, and service will echo through generations.

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, on August 25, 1962, Rev. Dr. Washington was the eldest of three sons to the late Rev. Lester Washington, Sr. and Mrs. Emma Washington. His spiritual foundation was laid early, accepting Christ at a young age and receiving the call to preach at just 12 years old. As a fifth-generation Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME) pastor, he carried forth a legacy of faith and service. His great-great-grandfather, the late Rev. Cyrus Alexander, Sr., established the Alexander-Lawson Memorial CME Church, the first CME church in Bastrop, Louisiana and Phillip’s paternal grandparents, Foster and Estella Washington, deeply instilled the values of service within the CME church—setting in motion a mission that Rev. Dr. Washington would nurture and grow throughout his ministry.

He graduated from Hazelwood Central High School in 1980. He went on to earn his Bachelor of Science in Administration of Justice from Wichita State University, followed by a Master of Divinity from the Interdenominational Theological Center – Phillips School of Theology and a Doctor of Ministry from United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. He lived by II Timothy 2:15, “Study to show thyself approved,” instilling that same dedication in his family and those he mentored.

Beyond his many titles and accomplishments, Rev. Dr. Phillip D. Washington was a man of deep and abiding love—love for God, love for his family, love for the church, love for the communities he served, and love for all of God’s people.

To a previous union, he was blessed with two daughters, Tyna and Terrea, whom he cherished beyond measure. Affectionally referring to them as his sun and moon, and he never missed an opportunity to express how proud he was of them. His joy multiplied with the arrival of his four grandchildren, who lovingly called him Papa—a role he embraced with so much love and joy. He adored being their favorite storyteller, the brave companion for watching scary movies, and the ultimate game competitor. With his quick wit and infectious laughter, he filled their lives with valuable lessons, forehead kisses, and bear hugs; creating memories they will cherish forever.

Rev. Dr. Washington found his partner in love, faith and life, Alandra Byrd- who he lovingly referred to as Lan. Together, they built not just a nurturing and harmonious marriage but a ministry—walking in unity for 25 years, serving side by side, encouraging one another, and accomplishing many goals both personally and in their ministry.

For over 40 years, Rev. Dr. Washington’s ministry knew no bounds. Throughout his ministry, he was guided by the wisdom of trusted leaders, mentors and colleagues. Bishop Dotcy I. Isom, Sr. was an instrumental spiritual guide and mentor who profoundly influenced his spiritual journey. His pastoral journey spanned across the CME connection, serving churches in Kansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and California. Whether pastoring a congregation or leading a large district, he poured his heart into God’s people—shepherding them through triumphs and trials, always ensuring that the gospel remained alive in the hearts of those he served. His spiritual gifts and graces also allowed him to serve on both the CME regional and connectional levels including—Chair of the Joint Board of Finance and Board of Trustees of the Michigan-Indiana Region, Program Director Third Episcopal District, member of Economic Development Committee and Ministerial Examination Committee. On the connectional level he served as Vice Chair of the Board of Personnel Services, Vice Chair of Board of Christian Education and Formation, and member of Committee on Episcopacy.

At the time of his passing, he was the pastor of Hays Tabernacle CME Church in Los Angeles, California, under the leadership of Bishop Charley Hames, Sr. Previously serving as the Presiding Elder of the Los Angeles District. Before joining the 9th District, he was appointed as Presiding Elder of Detroit and Mid-Michigan Districts by Bishop Paul A.G. Stewart, Sr. and continued to serve in that role under the leadership of Bishop Sylvester Williams. Rev. Dr. Washington led with a spirit of unity and progress. He was a man of vision and action, spearheading initiatives like the Detroit C-ME Resale Shop, Mid-Michigan Transportation Ministry, Summer Literacy Programs, and the Golden Age Ministry, ensuring that ministry extended beyond the church walls and into the lives of those who needed it most.

One of his greatest legacies can be found in the people he mentored. He did not simply preach—he poured into others, helping shape the next generation of faith leaders. There were many he spiritually adopted, standing by them as a father in faith, offering wisdom, love, and an unwavering belief in their calling. He left behind not just congregations but spiritual sons and daughters who will help carry his legacy forward.

Beyond the pulpit, Rev. Dr. Washington was an advocate for social justice, education, and economic empowerment. As a former social worker and Head Start administrator, he championed programs that uplifted vulnerable children and families. As the founder and CEO of The Pilgrim Temple Human Development Corp. and Vision in Communities, he worked to bridge social and economic gaps, ensuring that faith was not just preached but practiced through service.

He was a leader among leaders, serving on numerous boards, councils, and committees, including as Board President of the Martin Luther King Jr. Foundation and NAACP 1st Vice President of South Bend Indiana, and a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. His influence extended beyond the church, touching the very fabric of the communities he served.

Rev. Dr. Phillip D. Washington is survived by his wife, Alandra Washington; his daughters, Tyna Daniels and Terrea Pleasant; his four grandchildren, Taleah, Tia, Tobias, and Tabytha; his loving mother, Mrs. Emma Washington, his brothers, Lester Washington (Ly Dorn Washington) and Anthony Washington (Monique Washington), who shared a lifetime of memories with him; nieces and nephews Whitley, Anthony II, Tyler, Scott II, Lacey, and Carter; sister and brother in laws, a host of close family, dear friends, spiritual brothers and sisters, as well as members whose lives were forever touched by his wisdom, humor, and steadfast faith. 

His life was a living sermon—one of faith, service, and boundless love. He has fought the good fight, he has finished the race, he has kept the faith (2 Timothy 4:7).

May his soul rest in peace and may we all strive to honor his legacy by continuing the work he so passionately began.

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