Otis Gerald Hicks was born in the city of Cleveland to the late Otis and Fannie S. (Collier) Hicks on October 30, 1944. From this union Otis was the second child of four children; Randolph, Otis (Gerald), Mariam (deceased) and Gloria.

Otis was educated in the Cleveland Public Schools system and graduated from Glenville High School, class of 1962. Upon graduating, Otis attended the H.B.C.U. Central State University with a major in Business Administration. During this time, he became an avid drummer and developed a love for music especially Jazz. Otis loved the sports; football, basketball and especially baseball.

Otis met his soulmate, Allonnie Marie and later married on August 7, 1976. To this union one son was born whom he loved dearly, Otis Malcolm Hicks. Otis received Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior July 5th, 2015. Throughout Otis’ life, he touched the hearts and souls of many people. He was employed with the State of Ohio for many years until he retired. After which he worked part-time at Home Depot until his health began to fail.

The Lord Commanded, it was time for Otis to come home and wear his crown July 31st, 2018 after his long illness. He leaves to cherish his son, Otis Malcolm Hicks, sister~ Gloria, brother~ Randolph (Eunice), niece ~Brandi Raé, nephew~ Randolph P. Hicks Jr. and numerous cousins and a host of other relatives and treasured friends.