Desmond Lloyd Ottey

Desmond was the beloved father of Yvonne Briscoe, Selvin Lloyd Ottey (Helen), and Sonia Brown (Maurice "Robert"). He was predeceased by his son, Junior Ottey. He was a devoted and cherished grandfather to Maurice, Matthew, Michael (Ashley), Karsten, and Caitlen, and a proud great-grandfather to Koa and Ruah. Desmond is also lovingly remembered by his siblings, Delores Forrester, Kenrick Ottey, and Cecil Ottey (Carmen), as well as his nieces and nephews: Michael (Casmin), Kalesha (Eddie) Dyer, Andrew, Curt (Andrea), and Conrad (Heather).

Born on December 27, 1942 in Patty Hill, Hanover, Jamaica, Desmond was the son of the late Cecil and Margaret Ottey. At the age of 18, he moved to Bristol, England, where he began his career as an electrician with SWEB. At the time, he was recognized as Bristol's first Black electrician, a remarkable achievement that reflected his determination and perseverance. While living in England, Desmond married Gwendolyn, and together they welcomed three children. In 1977, the family immigrated to Canada, where Desmond built a life rooted in hard work, community service, and family.

Desmond dedicated more than 30 years of service to the Hamilton Street Railway. He was also a longtime member of ACCA, where he actively participated in community events and fundraising initiatives. His commitment to helping others extended to his volunteer work with the Good Shepherd. He was also a proud member of the lodge in Blackheath.

Desmond will be fondly remembered for his generosity, warm spirit, and unwavering love for his family. He enjoyed sharing good meals with loved ones, spending time with friends over a drink, and creating lasting memories with his grandchildren, whom he adored beyond measure. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and would do anything for those he loved.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Westmount Terrace and Arbour Creek Care Centre for the compassionate care and kindness shown to Desmond throughout his time there. In lieu of flowers, donations in Desmond's memory may be made to the Kidney Foundation of Canada or Diabetes Canada.

Visitation will be held at Cresmount Funeral Home, 322 Fennell Avenue East, Hamilton, Ontario, on Monday, July 13, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. and 6:00–8:00 p.m. A Funeral Service will be held in the funeral home chapel on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., followed by interment at Mount Hamilton Cemetery, 260 Rymal Road East, Hamilton, Ontario.

Funeral Service & Interment will be live streamed for those unable to join us in person; please click the “Join Livestream” button below.

Online condolences may be shared at cresmountfennellchapel.com.