FAMU’s Kofi Hemmingway, known as the ‘Voice of Bragg,’ fondly remembered by Rattler Nation
Kofi Hemmingway was more than an alumnus of Florida A&M University.
He was a voice for advocacy and enlightenment across all entities that pertained to the Rattlers and Historically Black College and Universities (HBCU).
His social media username, ‘BELIEVE365’ was everything that personified his character. Hemmingway believed in FAMU and Black colleges — all 365 days of the year.
His passing at age 52 on March 16 was a major hit to the ‘FAMULY’ and Rattler Nation. But Hemmingway's efforts will continue to live eternally.
Saddened to hear this. Kofi was very knowledgeable about the entire landscape of FAMU. Sending condolences to all of his family and loved ones. Watching and being a guest on the O&G StrikeZone really helped me with my coverage in my early days. https://t.co/nzmiaa3V3d
— G. Thomas III (@3peatgee) March 17, 2023
Hemmingway, born in Columbia, South Carolina, earned the title as the 'Voice of Bragg' in 2016 after besting nearly 30 other contestants to achieve the highest score of them all to replace longtime football public address announcer Kenneth Jones.
While pursuing his Bachelors degree, Hemmingway was a FAMU tennis player and played the trombone for the Marching '100.' He also was the band's student president.
Most recently, Hemmingway, who lived in Jacksonville, served as a host of the O&G [Orange and Green] StrikeZone alongside fellow FAMU alumni Bryan Fulford and Kelvin Rosier. The trio offered commentary on the Rattler athletics weekly on Wednesday evenings.
Hemmingway was devoted in his faith too. He worked as an executive pastor at the Global Prophetic Training and Worship Embassy in Jacksonville and a was a campus pastor at A Wealthy Place Kingdom Church in Atlanta, Georgia until January of this year.
Hemmingway's passing leaves behind two daughters, Majesty and Lourdess and wife, Akeisha.
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FAMU Rattlers, alumni, and supporters pay respects to Kofi Hemmingway
After a college tennis career, Hemmingway got into coaching the sport, which included working at Oakleaf High School in Jacksonville.
Hemmingway also instructed FAMU football head coach Willie Simmons' children on the court.
"Our hearts are heavy as we heard our good brother [Hemmingway] has been called home to glory!," Simmons said in a tweet. "From being one of our biggest supporters to our kid's tennis instructor, he was always a phone call away! May God's grace, mercy, and comfort be with his wife, daughters, and loved ones! [Rest in Heaven]."
Hemmingway even touched the lives of young FAMU alumni.
Thai Floyd, a Digital Content Creator for ESPN's Andscape and School of Journalism & Graphic Communication alumna recalled how grateful she was to adjoin Hemmingway.
"My heart is broken. I'm praying for Kofi's family, friends, and loved ones," Floyd said. "My [O&G StrikeZone] family have always rallied around me and my journey. I'm so blessed God allowed them to grace my path."
Vaughn Wilson, a FAMU alumnus, hall of famer (football), and former sports information director has seen many years of Hemmingway from their families being close as the two attended FAMU High School.
"In 2016, he became 'The Voice of Bragg.' It was a dream come true," Wilson said. "Our families were close growing up. Rest well, my brother Kofi Hemmingway. May your works speak for you."
A.D. Drew substituted for the absent Hemmingway on the March 15 episode of the O&G StrikeZone. He just hoped that he properly lived up to the knowledgeable show host.
"When I filled in for [Hemmingway], little did I know that he would be leaving us," Drew said. "I hope I did an adequate job in your slot, but no one can ever fill your shoes. Prayers to your immediate family, the [Black College Sports Network] family, the [Jericho Broadcast Network] family, and the Rattler Nation. God Speed. [Rest in Heaven]."
Hemmingway's celebration of life is scheduled for Saturday, April 1 at 11 a.m. at the Old West Enrichment Center in Tallahassee. His family asks for everyone to wear all white attire.
Support the Hemmingway Family, organized by Kelvin Rosier and Vaughn Wilson.
#LLKOFI 🧡💚 pic.twitter.com/jjBjr7y9a0
— The O&G StrikeZone (@OandGStrikezone) March 22, 2023
Around FAMU Athletics
Administration: Breon Hagans hired as the Senior Associate Athletic Director for External Relations
Baseball: Pitcher Hunter Viets named SWAC Pitcher of the Week after throwing a complete game shutout against Mississippi Valley
Bowling: Head coach Karen Brown set to retire after 11 years following the SWAC Championships
Football: 2023 season Investing in Champions Packages now available
Tennis: Rattlers an undefeated 6-0 in SWAC play after beating Alabama State
Track and Field: Lauryn Hall (women's 100m/22nd), Dajon Clark (men's long jump/4th), Pache' Caldwell (men's long jump/9th) nationally ranked in events.
Gerald Thomas, III covers Florida A&M University Athletics for the Tallahassee Democrat. Contact him via email at gdthomas@gannett.com or on Twitter @3peatgee.
Follow the Tallahassee Democrat on social media at Tallahassee Democrat (Facebook), TallahasseeDemocrat (Instagram), and @TDOnline (Twitter)
This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Kofi Hemmingway, the 'Voice of Bragg,' remembered by FAMU community
