Otis Vern Winston, Jr., 74, passed away on February 16, 2026, in Fort Wayne, IN.  

Born on February 24, 1951, in Chicago, IL, Otis was the beloved son of Nettie Mae Ford and Otis Vern Winston, Sr. Otis was one of the greatest blessings from the moment he was born; he filled our lives with laughter and love. He left footprints of kindness wherever he went. Those who knew him will forever carry a piece of his light. 

Otis grew up in Los Angeles, CA and graduated from Alain LeRoy Locke High School in 1969.  Otis enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1970 and while in service, he served as a mortarman.  

Otis worked for General Motors for 35 years and was a big contributing factor in his department.  He transferred to Fort Wayne Assembly from Three Rivers, MI in 1986. Otis worked different levels throughout his department from team lead, replacement operator, and safety representative.  Otis was also elected Quality Analyst for the Final Department.  Otis retired from General Motors surrounded by love, lots of friends and many pleasant, unforgettable memories. 

Out of his many hobbies, Otis loved to go fishing on his boat. Another one of his favorite things to do was bowling. He had a true passion for bowling and was known for his skills on the lanes. 

Otis is survived by his children, Otis Vern Winston Jr. II, Laurasia Otez Winston, Eurasia Lambert and their mother Gwen Winston, with whom he shared many years of life and parenthood; his grandson, Hudson, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends who loved him dearly. 

Otis was preceded in death by his parents, Otis Vern Winston, Sr. and Nettie Mae Ford; his grandparents, Joseph and Althea Winston, and Isaac and Annie Mae Jones. 

“ A Life Remembered ” 

A life well lived, a heart so kind, 

A beautiful soul we were blessed to find. 

Though time has come to say goodbye, 

Your love will never fade or die. 

You live in every memory shared,  

in every moment when we cared. 

Forever loved, forever near, 

Forever in the hearts you held dear.  

By -Lorraine Pride