Willie Grant Floyd

Willie Grant Floyd was born on July 18, 1936, in Gonzales, Texas, to Walter L. Floyd Sr. andRoosevelt Floyd. He was the third of eight sons born to this union. The Floyd family later relocated to Corpus Christi, Texas, where Willie was raised and educated.

Willie attended Booker T. Washington Elementary School and Solomon Coles Junior High andHigh School. A gifted athlete, he went on to attend Prairie View University, where he played football until he was drafted into the United States Army. After honorably completing his military service, Willie returned home determined to further his education. He earned his degree from Texas Southern University, where he continued playing football and met the love of his life, Viola Frances Johnson.

Willie and Viola Frances were united in marriage in 1966. From this union, they welcomed one beautiful daughter, Mashawn Floyd, born on August 15, 1975. The family made their home in Temple, Texas, where Willie built both his career and his community ties.

Willie dedicated over 20 years of service as a Physical Therapist at the Veterans Hospital, caringfor those who had served their country. In recognition of his athletic achievements, he was inducted into the Prairie View Interscholastic League High School Football Hall of Fame in 2005.

A man of courage and conviction, Willie often shared stories of his time as a Freedom Rider in Mississippi, reflecting his lifelong commitment to justice and equality. He was a proud memberof Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., an active Texas Southern University alumnus, and dedicated member of the NAACP and the Juneteenth Association in Temple, Texas. Willie also faithfully served as past President of Trustees of St. James United Methodist Church and was deeply involved in civic life throughout the city of Temple.

Willie was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Viola Frances Floyd; his cherished daughter, Mashawn Floyd; his father, Walter Floyd Sr.; his mother, Roosevelt Floyd; and his brothers,Walter Floyd Jr., Charles Floyd, David Floyd, Robert Floyd, Clarence Floyd, and McKinley Floyd.

He leaves to cherish his memory one brother, Troy Floyd Sr.; a brother-in-law, James Johnson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Willie was known for always being “on the road,” forever traveling to and from somewhere,carrying stories, wisdom, and love wherever he went. So rest well, our brother—your journey was well lived, and your legacy will endure.