Organ Stop Pizza organist retiring after more than 40 years

PHOENIX — An organist who performed at Valley-based Organ Stop Pizza for over 40 years will make his final regular appearance on Friday.

Lew Williams has been a staple at the Mesa location and original one in Phoenix, which has been closed for more than 35 years, since 1979.

“Lew really helped shape Organ Stop Pizza into the restaurant that it is today,” Jack Barz, co-owner of the restaurant, said in a press release. “His commitment to performance is second to none.”

Williams’ career took him around the U.S. and internationally when he wasn’t entertaining Organ Stop customers.

He performed in England, France, Australia and more throughout the years. Williams was named Organist of the Year by the American Theater Organ Society in 1988.

Williams still has a customer who watches him perform every Wednesday and Friday evening.

“His talent is so vast and incredible, he certainly leaves huge shoes to fill,” Barz said in the release. “Lew will be greatly missed by customers and staff alike. Organ Stop Pizza will forever be grateful for his years of performance magic.”

Organ Stop said Williams might be back for occasional performances.

Glenn Taller, an experienced organist originally from Chicago, will join Organ Stop’s musical staff on Wednesday.

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