Otis Ray Lanier, Jr.

Otis Ray Lanier, Jr., age 62, peacefully ascended to the Lord on August 7th, 2023. Otis was born on October 29th, 1960, in Wake County, where he attended Broughton High School, creating many lifelong friendships. He proudly served his country in the Marine Corp. Otis was known for his big heart. He would give the shirt off his back and the last dollar in his pocket to someone in need. Although feisty at times, he would ensure his family, friends, and in many cases, strangers would not go without. Many of his loved ones have stories of Otis assisting them when they needed help.

Before his health declined, Otis worked at Big Lots, where his stores were always the finest in town. He took pride in his work, ensuring well-stocked, immaculately clean, and a great customer experience in his stores. Prior to Big Lots, majority of his career was at Variety Wholesalers and Exide Electronics, where his big heart led to the courtship of his beloved wife Charlene, as well other long-lasting friendships.

Otis spent many days working in his garden and being outdoors. He was a great cook and grill master, cooking for Charlene, his mother, and his furry pets. Otis had a special bond with his daughter Oshana. From their daily morning check-ins to his boasting of her accomplishments and latest adventures, Otis was a loving and a supporting Dad. Otis cherished his granddaughter Vivienne and was so proud of her. He was a doting Grandpa, always looking for the next thing to buy her. She was the apple of his eye. He loved his family dearly and always knew he could count on them. His mother was his biggest advocate and internet doctor to see him through all his illnesses. Otis adored his Chow Chows, the latest being Chyna, whom he spoiled daily. If you knew Otis, you knew he was also a fighter. He protected his family fiercely and fought his illnesses for many years. His strength was inspiring and if you spent any time with him, you knew he had the spirit of “King David.”

He is preceded in death by his wife Charlene Dickens Lanier, his two fathers Otis Ray Lanier, Sr. and Robert Gillard, his brother Jeffrey Lanier, and nephew Nathan Goode.

Otis is survived by his daughter Oshana Watkins (Duane), granddaughter Vivienne Watkins, mother Ida Gilliard, sister Angela Goode (Tony), sister Beverly Gilbert (Tracy), brother Ronald Gilliard, nephews TJ Goode (Stacy), Bryant Gilbert, RJ Gilliard, Josh Lanier, and Jansen Mitchell (Jenneth), nieces Tandra Ramos (Walter), Tiffany Lanier, Ashley Harris (Stephen), Sarah Bennett, and a dear family friend Muriel Bennett. A host of great-nieces, great-nephews, and friends who loved him very much.