Obituaries | Week of Sept. 7, 2026

GARY RICHARD OTT

Gary Richard Ott, 66, of Oak Bowery passed away suddenly on Monday, Aug. 31, 2026.

He was born Jan. 16, 1960, in Birmingham to Harold and Margaret Ott, who preceded him in death.

Gary was a devoted husband, father, brother and friend. He was a loving husband to his wife of 49 years, Vicky Lee Smith Ott, and a proud father to Christopher Andrew Ott. Gary made sure that those he loved always knew just how deeply they were loved.

Gary was the founder of Ott Medical Gas Systems, Inc., where he worked for 29 years. He was a valuable resource, trusted colleague and friend to many hospital engineers throughout Alabama. He took great pride in his work and in giving back to his community by helping keep Alabama hospitals’ medical gas systems safe and running properly.

Gary will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his generosity, his friendships and the many lives he touched through both his work and his kindness. His absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved him.

Gary is survived by his loving wife, Vicky Lee Smith Ott; his son, Christopher Andrew Ott; his brothers, Dean (Amy) Ott and Jeff (Deana) Ott; and his sister, Rhonda (Jerry) Fuller. He will also be dearly missed by his many nieces and nephews and their children.

A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at 3 p.m. on Sept. 19, 2026, at his home in Oak Bowery.

Gary’s memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends and all those fortunate enough to have known him.

JOHN A. BROWN

John A. Brown, a resident of Valley, died Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026, at EAMC-Lanier Health Services in Valley.

Funeral services were held Saturday, Sept. 5, at Zion Rest Baptist Church Heard Center in Valley. The Revs. Frederick Stanley, pastor; Richard Carter Jr., officiant; and Willie Calvin Atkinson, eulogist assisted with the service. Interment followed in Mt. Zion AME Cemetery, located at 5058 U.S. Highway 29 in Opelika. 

Funeral services were directed by Davis Memorial Mortuary of Valley.