Waymon Armstead

Mr. Waymon Armstead was born in Bradenton to the late Robert and Hattie Mae Armstead. He was educated in the Manatee County Public School system and was a graduate of Lincoln Memorial High School. During high school, he was a stellar athlete who excelled in Football and Baseball. After graduating high school, he spent four years enlisted in the Navy where he served his country proudly and honorably. During his stint in the Navy, Waymon discovered his passion for baseball. He officially began his baseball career in 1945 as a member of the Navy baseball team. In 1946, he was honorably discharged from the Navy and began his playing career with the Bradenton Nine Devils of the Florida State Negro League. Waymon would be a member of the Nine Devils from 1946-1951. During his playing days with the Nine Devils, Waymon was best known for his speed and clutch hitting which garnered him the nickname “Stan the Man!” In 1953, Waymon made an attempt at the Major Leagues by playing for the Chicago Cubs Class “C” organization Brogergasser, of the West Texas New Mexico League. However, multiple injuries derailed his attempt at the Big Leagues and he returned to Bradenton. After his baseball playing days were over, he worked as a cement truck operator and long-distance truck driver until his retirement. Waymon was truly blessed to be part of a large family tree. He is survived by his brother Howard Bell and his sister Annie Pearl Curry (Archie). He was preceded in glory by the following siblings: Mary Carol Abner, Vunia Armstead-Platt, James Bell, Armon Bell and Thomas Bell. His children who preceded him to glory are Waymon Armstead Jr. (Jennette) and Stephanie Armstead. Waymon was graced with eight children: His surviving children are Dorothenia Betsy (Rudy, transitioned to glory), Paulette Armstead, Vernard Brown (Lavonnia), Marcus Armstead, Carol Lenton (Paul) and Lee Armstead (Elnora). He also leaves behind many great grandchildren, grandchildren, nieces, nephews and a host of family members and friends who loved and admired him.

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