Catalogued in numerous interviews in the media, are friends, family members, coworkers, and coaches, describing George Floyd as a wonderful man. He had many nicknames. He went by “Gentle Giant,” “Floyd,” “Big Floyd,” and “My Twin.” The last name was from former NBA player, Stephen Jackson. Quoted by CNN, Jackson said, “The difference between me and bro was I had more opportunity than he did.” Jackson said he and Floyd had a 21 plus year relationship.
Floyd grew up in Houston. An athlete in high school, Floyd played both football and basketball. After high school, he played basketball for South Florida State College in Avon Park, Florida. To CNN, Gloria Walker, the wife of Floyd’s basketball coach, said Floyd was fun to be around. “He was never one that tried to blame others for his own mistakes,” she said. “He always owned up to them and always tried to do better.”
George Floyd moved to Minnesota to start over. He had served time in prison and was looking for a fresh start. He found work in Minneapolis as a truck driver and security guard at Conga Latin Bistro. His boss there, Jovanni Thunstrom, remarked that all of his employees and customers had an affection for Floyd.
The family of George Floyd can be seen speaking with Don Lemon while holding a framed picture of their lost son. “Knowing my brother is to love my brother,” said George’s brother, Philonise Floyd. George Floyd left behind two daughters.