BROTHER ROSCOE NANCE

Brother Roscoe Nance was initiated in the Lambda Epsilon Chapter of the seventh district in 1968 and is a Charter member of Omicron Kappa Kappa Chapter, Third District of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. For the entire span of his walk in Omega and throughout the twenty-five-year existence of the OKK Chapter, Brother Roscoe Nance has played a momentous role in serving our communities and professionally as a sportswriter. With humble beginnings in Enterprise and Union Springs, Alabama, he attended Tuskegee University and was the sports editor of the campus digest. Brother Nance rose through the ranks of his career and was inducted into both the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Hall of Fame and the Black College Hall of Fame. He is the first inductee who didn’t attend an HBCU, nor coach or play sports. Brother Nance worked at USA Today for over thirty years and covered a myriad of sports, including the NBA, for fifteen seasons. The commissioner of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) once stated that “He could write like Picasso could paint.” Brother Nance had a gift with the pen. Additionally, his editorial work was always spot on and captivating.

Not only did he shine in the professional world, he also did great things philanthropically. He was a Boy Scout, a member of the ROTC, and later became a commissioned officer in the US Army. His vast community service has impacted homeless shelters, churches, and the hearts of many. The vast eulogies and commemorations during his passing serves as a testament to his selfless stature and kindheartedness with everyone who interacted with our Brother “Sco”, as he was affectionally called by his dear Brothers in Omega.

To express our love and honor for our great brother, the OKK Chapter Brothers decided to start an annual golf tournament so that his name would continue to be remembered. On Monday, November 15, 2021, The Brethren of Omicron Kappa Kappa opened up with a 10am Tee Time in honor of Brother Roscoe Nance. This classic was the chapter’s first annual golf tournament to commemorate his selfless and untiring work for our Dear Omega. What began with a chilly start ended up being warmed by the fond memories, kind words, and well-deserved trophies for those participating in the tournament held at Hidden Creek Golf and Country course in Herndon, Virginia. Several of Roscoe’s Brothers in the Fraternity and fellow Tuskegee Airmen came out to celebrate him. His wife gave a beautiful summation of how they initially met and fell in love. She also shared anecdotes about his life and times in the Fraternity. She wholeheartedly believed that he was looking down upon them and felt that this event was well put together. Additionally, he would be proud of everyone.

Brother Roscoe Nance peacefully passed away at the age of 71 from cancer in his Virginia home. He is survived by his wife Willye, son Keith, two daughters Rahkia and Riva, three grandchildren, and a long list of individuals who still consider him to be a trailblazer, icon, and legend.

OMICRON OMEGA CHAPTER

ACHIEVEMENT WEEK 2021

On November 21, 2021, the Omicron Omega Chapter, Third District of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., celebrated the achievements of local community members and youth during the annual Achievement Week celebration. The Achievement Week Program is used to recognize those individuals at the local and national levels who have made significant contributions toward improving the quality of life for others and service to the community and Fraternity.

The event was held virtually to allow Brothers, family, and friends to participate and celebrate with the chapter’s awardees. All honorees have made significant contributions to their community. Mr. Paul Nichols received the Citizen of the Year Award for his contributions and leadership in Mecklenburg County. Local youth were also honored for their exemplary essay writing in this year’s International High School Essay Contest. This year’s first-place winner was Ms. Alyssa Rivas from Brunswick Academy. The chapter recognized their 50 year plus members as Omega Men of the Year for their dedication to the chapter and the fraternity. The Brothers honored are as follows:

Brother Floyd Fields - 66 year member Brother Elmore Jones - 64 year member Brother Bowman Burton - 63 year member Brother Colonius Avent - 53 year member Brother Dr. Robert Stacher - 62 year member

The Omicron Omega Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. is proud to recognize those who have impacted their community to bring positivity and unity.