Raymond Bellamy’s journey to the FHSAA Hall of Fame is astonishing.

“I really didn’t think I’d be living now,” Bellamy said.

“My family is migrant workers and I’ve seen some things that a lot of people would not believe.”

Bellamy’s story is hard to believe.

The Bradenton native was a standout at Lincoln Memorial High in the pre-integration 1960’s.

Bellamy aspired to join the military until colleges noticed his ability. He signed with Miami, becoming the first African-American to sign a football scholarship with a major university in the southeastern United States.

“He’s to be admired by everybody,” FHSAA executive director Roger Dearing said. “He’s an example of not only an athlete but he’s a great example of a great human being.”

Bellamy was one of 10 people inducted into the FHSAA Hall of Fame on Sunday night in Gainesville.

A bad car accident prematurely ended Bellamy’s career, but his receiving numbers are still among the best in Hurricanes history.

He also succeeded off the field, becoming the first African-American student body president in Miami history. He was honored to earn a spot in the FHSAA Hall of Fame.

“This means everything to me because anytime someone in the state of Florida recognizes you and think that you did something that was important to their community and to our country, that’s wonderful,” Bellamy said.

Clermont native Floyd Williams, a contest official, was also enshrined.

Williams spent nearly 40 years officiating basketball and baseball and oversaw nearly 1,300 games. He worked 31 FHSAA Finals events.

“I had a coach tell me one time, I’m glad to see you here because I know I’m going to get a fair game,” Williams said. “You know, you can’t beat that kind of compliment.