Mr. Otis Gene Grady

Otis Gene Grady, son of the late V. H. Grady and Pearl L. (Cooper) Grady, was born on June 22, 1962, in Arkansas and peacefully departed this life on October 30, 2025, at Baptist Health Medical Center – North Little Rock. He was 63 years old. Otis accepted Christ at an early age at Rising Sun Missionary Baptist Church in Forrest City, Arkansas, where he learned the importance of faith, family, and compassion. Educated in the Forrest City School District, he grew up surrounded by love, laughter, and the strong values his parents instilled in all their children. In his younger years, Otis moved to Cleveland, Ohio, where he lived for nearly thirty years and worked in the culinary industry, developing his gift for cooking and connecting with people through food. About six years ago, he returned home to Forrest City to be closer to family and continued his passion for cooking. Over the years, he worked at KFC, Waffle House, Ole Sawmill, and finally C. R. Smalls, where he remained employed until his health began to fail. Otis was also a gifted artist. Long before the digital age, he could be found creating hand-drawn signs, murals, and billboards for local businesses and community events. His artistic eye and steady hand left a creative imprint throughout Forrest City, and his work reflected his patience, pride, and imagination. Affectionately known as “Nervous,” a nickname lovingly given by his sister Shirley, he was also known for calling himself “Southern Bill.” Those who knew him best would say that name fit him perfectly—he was a Southern gentleman with charm, humor, and plenty of personality. A true jokester, Otis loved to laugh, have fun, and make everyone around him feel comfortable. Outgoing and lighthearted, he was the life of any room wherever he went. He deeply loved his children, cherished his family, and enjoyed good company. And in the words of those who knew him best—he loved the women, too—always respectful, playful, and full of that signature Nervous charm. He was preceded in death by his parents, V. H. and Pearl Grady; one sister, Lula Ware; two brothers, John Grady and George Grady; one son, Antonio Rogers, who now welcome him home. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving children: Taneka Millbrooks of Ruston, Louisiana, Otis (Jessica) Grady Jr. of Jacksonville, Arkansas, Angel Grady (Juan) Oliver and Jessica Reed of Forrest City, Arkansas, Oniah Beckham of Cleveland, Ohio, and Cortez Graham; Erica (Keith) Phillips of Belleville, Texas; his devoted brothers Ezell Grady of Nashville, Tennessee, Kenny Grady of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Victor Grady of Atlanta, Georgia, and Harold Grady of Minnesota; and his loving sisters Lena Mae McClean of Cleveland, Ohio, Inez Patton of Cleveland, Ohio, Dora Mull of St. Louis, Missouri, Rosa Swift of Forrest City, Arkansas, Shirley Brown of Forrest City, Arkansas, and Veonia Franklin of Forrest City, Arkansas. He is also survived by 15 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever remember his laughter, kindness, and zest for life. A loyal Cleveland Cavaliers fan, Otis loved basketball, music, good food, and time spent surrounded by loved ones. His laughter, creativity, and generous heart will forever be remembered by those who were blessed to know him.

Mr. Otis Gene Grady

June 22, 1962 - October 30, 2025