Coach Mix Will Lead Parade
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Water Valley High School coach Bryant Mix is known for his dedication to mentoring young people and his commitment to the community.
By Jessie Gurner
Herald Contributor
WATER VALLEY – If you are a football fan—or even if you’re not—you’ve probably heard the story of Water Valley’s own football legend, Bryant Mix. As a senior Blue Devil in 1990, he was part of the state championship team, a season that remains a cherished memory for the town. “I have never seen a group of people come together like that,” he says, reflecting on the incredible support the team received from the community and local businesses.
Mix’s football journey didn’t stop after high school. He went on to play at Northwest Community College, where his team achieved remarkable success, winning two state championships, a national championship, and finishing as national runners-up another time. Among his teammates, Mix was one of 16 players to sign a Division I scholarship. He continued his career at Alcorn State University in Natchez, and in April 1996, he experienced what he calls “the longest day of my life” when he was drafted by the Houston Oilers with the 8th pick of the 2nd round.
As injuries took a toll on his body, Mix found it harder to recover the way he wanted. “I was tired of doing it,” he recalls, leading him to make the tough decision to retire from football. Determined to finish what he started, Mix returned to Alcorn State and completed his degree. Then, in a turn of events straight out of a Hallmark Christmas movie, he was offered a coaching position in Water Valley in 2001. Just like that, Mix found himself back where it all began—as a Blue Devil once again.
As impressive as Mix’s past records are, it’s the work he has done—and continues to do—with the young people of Water Valley that will leave an even more lasting legacy. His impact goes beyond the football field, shaping lives and inspiring the next generation.
Angie Hodge, President of the Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce, shares her admiration: “Bryant Mix exemplifies what it means to give back to your community. His dedication to mentoring young people and his commitment to Water Valley make him the perfect choice as this year’s Christmas Parade Grand Marshal.”
Known for his warm heart, strong family values, and unwavering love for his community, Mix is the perfect embodiment of the holiday spirit. His love for Christmas started young, growing up in Water Valley with his mother, Emma Benson, and his two brothers, Ken and Lee. Though times were not always easy, they found joy in the little things. “Christmas was a challenging time sometimes,” Mix recalls, “but we still made the best of it.”
His eyes light up as he remembers those early mornings when he and his brothers couldn’t wait to see what Santa had left for them. “We barely could sleep,” Mix says with a laugh. “We’d rush to the tree thinking we’d find gifts, but sometimes, nothing was there yet. Then later, it would all appear. It was so much fun.”
The parade was another source of holiday wonder for young Mix. “I remember when the bands used to march,” he reminisces. “The music, the candy, seeing Santa Claus—it was just magical. It’s one of those memories that sticks with you, how excited we all were.” Today, Mix and his wife, Kay, carry on the tradition of making Christmas special for their family, which includes their children—Aria, Desmond (“BJ”), and Dominique—and three beloved grandchildren. While the family is spread out, with the grandchildren living in California, they find ways to stay connected. “We do everything on FaceTime,” Mix shares. “It’s always exciting to hear from the grandbabies and see their faces light up.”
Mix lights up himself when he talks about his grandchildren. “Khalee is in her princess phase—she wants baby doll clothes and lots of outfits to dress up in,” he says with a chuckle. “Kano really loves transformer toys and can’t wait for Santa to give him some. And Kammi, well, she’s only seven months, so she’ll just be happy with whatever we put in front of her.”
Family games have also become a cherished tradition in the Mix household. “Kay started this thing where we put the phones away and play little games together,” Mix says. “It brings everyone closer, and that’s what Christmas is all about—just enjoying each other’s company.”
As grand marshal, Mix brings more than his love for the holiday season—he brings a heartfelt message for his community. “More love,” he says. “We’ve lost a lot of people recently—friends, coaches, my pastor. It makes you realize how precious time is. Take a moment to tell someone you love them, because you never know when it might be the last time.”
Mix’s reflections on family and community resonate deeply. “Growing up, family gatherings were everything,” he shares. “We’d visit cousins, share gifts, and just be together. I miss those days when family traditions were stronger. It’s something I hope we can all get back to.”
When asked about his most memorable Christmas, Mix doesn’t hesitate. “In 1996, I was able to give my mom the deed to her new house,” he says. “She worked so hard for us, and being able to give back to her was a dream come true. That’s the best gift I’ve ever given.”
Mix also reflects on how gift-giving has changed over the years. “When I was a kid, Christmas meant getting a bike,” he says. “I remember my first BMX—man, you couldn’t tell me nothing! Nowadays, kids seem to skip right to wanting cars.”
Despite the changing times, Mix takes pride in seeing the next generation grow up. “I’ve coached a lot of kids in this town,” he says. “Now I’m coaching their kids, too. It’s rewarding to see them grow and come back to Water Valley to start their own families.”
Mix’s favorite Christmas traditions include riding around town to see the lights, a simple joy that he’s carried since childhood. “There was a house out past Johnny Avant’s that used to be decorated from top to bottom,” he says. “It was like the whole block lit up. We’d wait for those lights to come on every year.”
His favorite Christmas dessert? German chocolate cake. “My grandmother used to make it every Christmas,” Mix says.
As the grand marshal, Mix looks forward to sharing his joy and gratitude with his beloved community.
“Being chosen is such an honor,” he says. “This town has given me so much, and I just want to give back.”
