I pray this message finds you well. My name is LaToya S. London, and I am writing on behalf of my family and our community to respectfully request that you sponsor an item before the Commission to co-name a portion of NW 27th Avenue as “Willie James London Avenue” in honor of my late father, Mr. Willie James London.

About Willie James London

Willie James London was the third child and oldest son of the late Darius and Lovie Overstreet London, born in Holopaw, Osceola County, Florida on January 20, 1941. Though small in stature at birth, his mother often said she could hold him in one hand. his life was one of great impact.

Education & Academics: He graduated in the top 10 percent of his class from Ralph H. Bunche High School in Woodbine, Georgia in 1960. He earned a four-year scholarship to Edward Waters College, excelling in academics and athletics (football, track, boxing). He graduated Magna Cum Laude with a major in Mathematics and a minor in Physics and Chemistry. He later pursued graduate studies at the University of Wisconsin, earned a Master of Science from Florida A&M University, and a Certificate in Adult and Community Education from Florida Atlantic University.
Professional Service: In 1968, Mr. London moved to Fort Lauderdale and began teaching mathematics at Dillard High School, where he influenced hundreds of students. He went on to become Director of Community School at Parkway Middle (1974) and later Assistant Principal at Dillard High School, where he served until his retirement in 2001.
Community Impact: Mr. London was deeply committed to youth mentorship. He received awards from Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and the Broward Black Firefighters Association for mentoring and changing the trajectory of countless young lives. He was active in the Parkway community, an involved member of Gamma Gamma Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., and worshipped at Bible Church of God under his cousin, Bishop Leroy London, Sr.
Personal Legacy: A devoted husband to Loretta Eggelletion London for over 53 years, he was a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, mentor, and friend. He was known for his wisdom, humor, generosity, and his relentless drive to help others.
Connection to NW 27th Avenue

Mr. London’s business LONDON’S VAN’S SUPPLIES, SOURCE 1 CAFE’ and LONDON APARTMENTS is located on NW 27th Avenue and remains there to this day. and his gravesite is also on NW 27th Ave and NW 6th Street. 

Our family is now preparing to transition the property to new developers for a project that will provide affordable housing for the elderly, adding long-term value to District 8. While the property itself will be redeveloped, we believe it is important to preserve his memory in the very place where he worked, served, and uplifted others. Naming NW 27th Avenue in his honor ensures that his legacy as a pillar of the community is never forgotten, even as the neighborhood grows and transforms.

Our Request

That you vote and share this petition in support of the co-naming of NW 27th Avenue as “Willie James London Avenue.”

This co-naming would not only honor my father’s extraordinary legacy but would also inspire generations to come. Thank you for your vote  

Respectfully,

LaToya S. London