Otis Smith, United States Air Force (Retired Tech Sgt.), passed away peacefully at Columbus Hospice in Columbus, Georgia, on April 15, 2026, at the age of 94. He was born on October 28, 1931, in Midland, Georgia, to Patsy Echols and Andrew Jackson. From humble beginnings, Otis grew into a man of strength, integrity, and unwavering faith.
At a young age, Otis answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Air Force. He dedicated 24 years of honorable service, with a military career that spanned the Korean War, the Cold War, peacetime, and the Vietnam War. As a skilled fuel systems specialist working on fighter-bombers, he played a vital role in mission readiness and operational success. His excellence, discipline, and leadership earned him numerous awards and the respect of his peers.
Beyond his military service, Otis was a man deeply rooted in faith. He was a devoted member of New Bethel A.M.E. Church in Columbus, Georgia, for more than 60 years. Throughout those years, he faithfully served in many capacities, including Sunday School Superintendent, treasurer, and trustee. He was a mentor and guiding light to many, especially young people, encouraging them to pursue their purpose and live with integrity.
Even after facing the challenges of blindness, Otis continued to serve others with compassion and purpose. He co-founded the Blinded Veterans Association Georgia Regional Group, Columbus Chapter, in 2002. He served as Regional Treasurer from 2003 to 2013 and faithfully fulfilled the role of Chaplain from 2002 through 2023. Through these roles, he provided spiritual encouragement, leadership, and fellowship to fellow veterans.
Otis found joy in the simple and meaningful moments of life. He loved spending time outdoors, especially fishing, and he enjoyed baking and sharing stories that brought laughter and wisdom to family and friends. In retirement, he revisited his early skills in construction through home remodeling, a reflection of his lifelong work ethic and creativity.
He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Cynthia Golden Frasier (Nathan); his sister, Beatrice Robinson; his granddaughter, Chenelle Golden; and Chenelle Golden; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. He is also remembered with love and respect by his brothers and sisters of the Blinded Veterans Association and his church family at New Bethel A.M.E. Church.
Otis was preceded in death by his parents, Patsy Echols and Andrew Jackson.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Patricia Montgomery, a devoted friend and caregiver, his devoted physicians over the years, as well as the Home Health team at Covenant Woods and Columbus Hospice Staff, for their compassionate care, kindness, and unwavering support during his final days.
A Visitation for Family and Friends will be held at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary - Columbus, Wynnton Room, 4071 Macon Rd, Columbus, Georgia 31907, on April 24, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Funeral Service will be held at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary - Columbus, Fisher Chapel, 4071 Macon Rd, Columbus, Georgia 31907, on April 25, 2026, at 11:00 AM with Pastor Robyn Burnett officiating. A wake will be from 10:00 AM until time of service at 11:00 AM.
Otis will be laid to rest in Fort Mitchell National Cemetery, 553 SR-165, Fort Mitchell, AL 36856 on April 30, 2026 at 11:00 AM (EST) with Military Honors.
