John A. Amos Jr. was born on December 27, 1939, in Newark. He attended East Orange High School, where he received his diploma in 1958.

He gained admission at Long Beach City College but later decided to study at Colorado State University where he earned a sociology degree permitting him to work as a social worker.

Amos played football for the Colorado State Rams during his time in college. He was a Golden Gloves boxing champion following his graduation from college.

After several failed stints at a career in football, Amos rose to fame in his first major television job as The Mary Tyler Moore Show’s weatherman Gordy Howard from 1970 to 1973.

John Amos parents: John Amos Sr., Annabelle P. Amos

John Amos was born to John Amos Sr. and Annabelle P. Amos. Both his parents were natives of New Jersey and raised their family in East Orange. His father, John Amos Sr. worked as an auto mechanic.

Source: Ghanafuo.com