Clarence “SPUD” Josey Jr. Way (Queens)
Present name:Hassock Street
Location:Between Beach Channel Drive and Redfern Boulevard
Honoree: Clarence Josey Jr. (1960-2020) was born in New York and later attended Richmond Hill High school where he was a star running back on the football team. He was affectionately called SPUD, a nickname that stuck with him throughout his life. After serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, he relocated to Far Rockaway and became a basketball coach for the youth in his neighborhood. In addition to coaching, he was a Master of Ceremonyies and a DJ. He was very athletic and involved in various sports, including boxing, basketball and football. In 2011, he got involved with OPERATION SNUG (GUNS spelled backwards). This was an anti-gun violence initiative that was based in the Redfern housing project in Far Rockaway. He was instrumental in spreading the message of peace and advocating for the need of brotherhood in the Far Rockaway area and abroad. In 2012, he joined Father’s Alive In The Hood Inc, (F.A.I.T.H.) a nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote a positive presence of fatherhood and protection within families and communities. He invited F.A.I.T.H to partner with him in a mentorship program he was already involved with at M.S. 72 in Southest Queens. With Father’s Alive In The Hood, he took part in numerous anti-gun violence Peace Walks in Far Rockaway and other troubled areas of New York City. Also, after Superstorm Sandy left Far Rockaway, Coney Island and other areas in New York ravaged, he volunteered tirelessly in getting supplies to seniors and people in need. (Brooks-Powers)
LL:2022/54