The story of Gavin Newsom’s parents, William Alfred Newsom III and Tessa Thomas (Menzies) Newsom, continues to draw interest as the California governor’s background remains central to his public image. Born on October 10, 1967, in San Francisco, Newsom grew up in a household shaped by two very different parental influences — one rooted in political and legal power, the other in quiet resilience and single parenthood.
Background on Gavin Newsom’s Parents
Father: William Alfred Newsom III
William Alfred Newsom III was born in February 1934 in San Francisco, California. He came from a family with deep connections in law, business, and public affairs. Educated at the University of San Francisco and Stanford University, he became a respected attorney and later served as a judge on California’s First District Court of Appeal.
William Newsom also played an influential role in managing trusts and advising prominent California families, particularly in San Francisco’s elite social circles. His network and career path reflected a blend of legal expertise and close ties to the state’s political and business class.
He passed away on December 12, 2018, at the age of 84, shortly after his son Gavin was elected Governor of California. His death marked the end of a long career in law and civic engagement.
Mother: Tessa Thomas (Menzies) Newsom
Tessa Thomas Menzies was born on November 28, 1946, also in San Francisco. She married William Newsom in September 1966, and the couple welcomed two children: Gavin in 1967 and Hilary in 1968.
Their marriage was short-lived. The two divorced when Gavin was around four or five years old, and from that point on, Tessa raised her children largely as a single mother. She worked multiple jobs — including as a secretary, waitress, and bookkeeper — to make ends meet while caring for her children in Marin County.
Tessa was known for her strength, independence, and the compassion she instilled in her children. Gavin often credits his mother’s work ethic and sacrifice for shaping his approach to public service and leadership. Sadly, Tessa passed away on May 8, 2002, after a battle with breast cancer at the age of 55.
Key Details About the Family Dynamic
- Gavin Newsom’s parents divorced in the early 1970s, leaving his mother as the primary caretaker.
- Tessa moved Gavin and his sister Hilary to Marin County, where she managed their upbringing despite financial challenges.
- William Newsom remained active in his children’s lives but was largely focused on his career in San Francisco’s legal and social scene.
- The family dynamic gave Gavin a unique blend of experiences — exposure to both hard-working middle-class life through his mother and the world of influence and privilege through his father.
Recent Public Discussion
In recent months, discussions about Gavin Newsom’s background have resurfaced, especially as he positions himself on the national political stage. Some of this renewed attention comes from the contrasting stories about his upbringing — his mother’s struggles to raise two children versus his father’s proximity to California’s wealthy and powerful elite.
During public interviews and podcasts, Newsom has emphasized his mother’s sacrifices, often describing her as “the hardest-working person” he has ever known. He recalls how she held multiple jobs and managed to provide stability despite limited means.
However, critics and commentators sometimes highlight his father’s significant professional connections, suggesting that those relationships may have indirectly helped Gavin’s early ventures and political career. This tension between modest beginnings and inherited privilege continues to shape public perceptions of the governor’s life story.
Why the Story of His Parents Matters
The story of Gavin Newsom’s parents matters because it provides a deeper understanding of the influences that shaped one of America’s most visible political figures.
- His mother’s perseverance embodies the working-class struggles that many Californians identify with.
- His father’s legal and social connections represent the establishment world that opened doors to influence and opportunity.
- Together, these two forces help explain how Newsom navigates both progressive ideals and political pragmatism.
For many observers, his parents’ contrasting worlds symbolize the broader balance between California’s rich elite and its everyday families — a balance Newsom continues to address as a policymaker.
Timeline of Major Family Events
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1966 | William Newsom married Tessa Menzies. |
| 1967 | Gavin Newsom was born in San Francisco. |
| 1968 | Hilary Newsom was born. |
| 1971–72 | William and Tessa divorced. |
| 2002 | Tessa Newsom passed away at age 55. |
| 2018 | William Newsom passed away at age 84. |
Current Status of Gavin Newsom’s Parents
Both of Gavin Newsom’s parents have passed away, but their legacies live on through their son’s work and public life. There have been no new developments regarding the Newsom family since his father’s passing in 2018. However, Gavin often references his mother’s influence in speeches and interviews, especially when discussing education, healthcare, and family policy.
How Their Legacy Shapes Gavin Newsom Today
The influence of Gavin Newsom’s parents is seen throughout his career. His father’s understanding of law, governance, and elite networks helped shape Gavin’s navigation of political power. Meanwhile, his mother’s example of hard work, humility, and compassion remains a core part of his public image.
This dual legacy helps explain why Newsom often emphasizes social responsibility and inclusion while still maintaining strong ties to California’s political establishment. The combination of privilege and perseverance defines his story — and continues to shape his leadership style as governor and potential national figure.
The story of Gavin Newsom’s parents remains a powerful part of his identity — a blend of two worlds that continue to influence California’s political landscape. What are your thoughts on how his family background shaped his journey? Share your view below.