Clarence “SPUD” Josey Jr. (1960 – 2020), was a local basketball coach, MC, and DJ who was heavily involved in the anti-gun violence movement in Rockaway.

Clarence Josey Jr. was born in Queens and attended Richmond Hill High school where he was a star player on the football team as a running back. Before he graduated from high school, he was drafted into the United States Marine Corps and served his country before being honorably discharged. He was affectionately called SPUD, a nickname that stuck with him throughout his life. He grew up in South Jamaica, Queens, and relocated to Far Rockaway as an adult, where he became a basketball coach for the young people in his neighborhood. In 2011, he got involved with OPERATION SNUG (GUNS) spelled backwards. This was an anti-gun violence initiative that was based in Redfern Housing Projects within Far Rockaway, New York. He was very instrumental in spreading the message of peace and advocating the need for 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, located on Guy R Brew Boulevard in the Southeast Queens area. While a part of “Father’s Alive in The Hood,” he partook in numerous anti-gun violence Peace Walks throughout Far Rockaway and other troubled areas within New York City. He also assisted a great deal after Superstorm Sandy left Far Rockaway, Coney Island and other areas in New York ravaged. He volunteered tirelessly, getting supplies for seniors and people in need.