Bill Williams

A graduate of Texas A&M University, College Station with a degree in Business Management, Bill built a career in real estate, mortgage lending, and banking before becoming the General Manager of The Hidden Door, the city’s oldest and last remaining LGBTQIA+ bar. Under his leadership, The Hidden Door has flourished as both a cultural hub and a safe space for connection, celebration, and creative expression. He is also a graduate of Leadership Corpus Christi.

Bill’s community service spans decades. During the AIDS crisis, he helped raise funds for The Passage, a hospice for patients with AIDS, and The Loving Spoonful, which provided meals for those living with HIV and AIDS. Through efforts with the Wellness Foundation, The Hidden Door, and the Texas Riviera Empire, Bill helped raise money for Christmas presents and school supplies for children infected or affected by HIV and AIDS. He has also supported The Rainbow Room, a nonprofit serving children entering foster care, and has traveled nationwide to assist other Courts in the International Imperial Court System with their charitable fundraising.

As President of the Texas Riviera Empire, Bill continues this legacy, stewarding one of the nation’s oldest LGBTQIA+ charitable organizations and strengthening connections between Corpus Christi and LGBTQIA+ communities nationwide.

Beloved for his generosity, humor, and steadfast commitment, Bill is known as a good listener, trusted advisor, and friend to all. As Brittany Andrews says: “He’s everybody’s friend.” Bill shared his life with his late partner for 33 years, and the two were able to marry before his partner’s passing. His commitment to family, friends, work, and community reflects the spirit of Pride—one of resilience, service, and love.