Bristol Cathedral Hosts Memorial Service for Paul Stephenson
Bristol Cathedral hosted a memorial service on 31 January 2025 in honour of Paul Stephenson OBE, the pioneering civil rights activist who led the 60-day Bristol Bus Boycott in 1963. The boycott was a response to the Bristol Omnibus Company’s refusal to hire Black or Asian drivers and played a pivotal role in the introduction of the first Race Relations Act in 1965. Paul, who passed away in November 2024 at the age of 87, was commemorated by over 400 attendees who gathered to celebrate his remarkable legacy and numerous achievements.
Distinguished speakers at the service included His Majesty’s representative, the Lord-Lieutenant Peaches Golding OBE, along with Lord Paul Boateng, Lord Simon Woolley, Lord Mayor Marvin Rees, and Sir Trevor Phillips. Other contributions came from television presenter Sherrie Eugene-Hart, a written statement from former boxer Frank Bruno, and actor David Harewood. The service was attended by civic leaders, dignitaries, and representatives of organisations supporting young people and Bristol’s Black community, as well as members of the public.
Music reflecting Paul’s diverse tastes was an integral part of the ceremony. Performances included:
- O Radiant Dawn by Sir James MacMillan, sung by the Berkeley Singers
- Precious Lord by Thomas Dorsey, performed by Maxine Barclay
- Something Inside So Strong by Labi Siffre, sung by the Renewal Choir
- How Beautiful Are the Feet by Handel, performed by Eve Doyle
- Tears Will Never Stain the Streets of That City by Dottie Rambo, sung by Maxine Barclay
- Agnus Dei by Haydn, performed by the Berkeley Singers
- Total Praise by Richard Smallwood, sung by the Renewal Choir
About Paul Stephenson OBE
Paul Stephenson OBE (6 May 1937 – 2 November 2024) was a trailblazing civil rights campaigner and activist. His leadership in the Bristol Bus Boycott was instrumental in challenging racial discrimination and fostering equality in the UK. Throughout his life, he made significant contributions to community relations in Coventry, London, and Bristol.
Paul returned to Bristol in 1992, where he played a crucial role in founding the Bristol Black Archives Partnership, preserving the history and achievements of Black Bristolians. In recognition of his enduring impact, he was awarded the Freedom of the City of Bristol in 2007.
Reflecting on his legacy, the Dean of Bristol, the Very Revd Dr Mandy Ford, remarked, “It was a great privilege and honour for us to host this service in gratitude for the life and work of Paul Stephenson. He was a true giant, whose lasting influence will continue to shape the city of Bristol and beyond.”
Paul Stephenson’s unwavering commitment to racial equality, his leadership in the Council for Racial Equality, and his dedication to empowering young people left an indelible mark on British society. His memory was honoured by all who attended the service, ensuring that his extraordinary legacy endures.
