Honoring a Legacy: Willie L. Morrow Way Renamed in Encanto to Celebrate Pioneering Hair Care Entrepreneur

Historic Street Renaming Honors Legacy of Willie L. Morrow in Encanto

ENCANTO (KGTV) — A significant moment unfolded in Encanto on Thursday as Tooley Avenue was officially renamed Willie L. Morrow Way, honoring a pioneering figure in Black hair care whose influence reached far beyond San Diego.

The renaming ceremony drew a crowd of community members eager to celebrate the legacy of Willie Morrow, a barber and entrepreneur who revolutionized hair care for Black individuals. Morrow, who passed away in 2022, was known for inventing the Afro pick and popularizing the California curl hairstyle. His barbershop became a vital hub for education and community connection, where he trained thousands of barbers and beauticians, including many in the U.S. military, on how to care for Black hair.

“This man built an empire with his own two hands right here in Southeast San Diego and beyond, and he did it with purpose,” said public advocate Shane Harris during the ceremony. “This street, Willie Morrow Way, isn’t just about where we drive; it’s about where we’re going. It’s about legacy. It’s about leadership.”

The timing of the renaming was particularly poignant, as it coincided with what would have been Morrow’s 85th birthday. Harris, who championed the street renaming, emphasized the importance of Morrow’s legacy for future generations. “The name will remind them of what’s possible when we believe in ourselves and invest in our own,” he stated.

Morrow’s daughter, Cheryl, expressed her pride in her father’s enduring impact. In a previous interview with ABC 10News, she reflected on the values he instilled in others. “When your name is good as gold because of how you treated people, that is the greatest thing that any heir could inherit,” she said.

As the community gathered to honor Morrow’s contributions, the new street sign stood as a testament to his lasting influence, inspiring future generations to embrace their identities and pursue their dreams.