1995 Greater Flint Afro-American Hall of Fame Inductee
Category: Founder of the Afro-American Sports Hall of Fame
Parent: Christalee Bryant
Wife: Kay Bryant
Daughters: Susan, Sherri, Stephanie and Simone
The Bryant Family moved from Little Rock, Arkansas to Flint in 1943. Norman attended the Flint Schools and matriculated at Arizona State College. He married Kay Owens in 1957, and from this union four daughters were born, Susan Bryant Gaither (James), Sherri, Stephanie and Simone Bryant Gaines. Daryl, Norman and Kay have five grandchildren, Anika Gaither, James Bryant Gaither, Chelsea Gaither, Makayla Gaines and Marisa Gaines.
As Founder, Norman was the first president of the Greater Flint Afro-American Hall of Fame, serving a 10 year term from 1983-1993.
He was a two sport star at Northern in football and track. In 1953, Norman ran on the record State medlay relay team. Also in 1953, Norman played on the City and Valley Football Championship Team. He was Captain of the 1954 track team.
Norman had a vision as he saw our community youth wasting the great opportunity from sports, for a better way of life, both academically and economically. A role model to inspire them was needed. Our black history had been one of unity in the community. Norman envisioned the Greater Flint Afro-American Hall of Fame (with the help of community volunteer’s) as being that vehicle to honor Black pioneers in sports.
The Greater Flint Afro-American Hall of Fame’s purpose is to preserve and exhibit the history of former Flint (sandlot, high school, city, college or professional) Afro-American athletes.
Motto:To Preserve, Not Compete.
