Otis Love was born in Neptune, NJ on March 28, 1946, to the late Annie Ruth and Eddie Love. He was the third of nine children. He grew up in Asbury Park attending Bangs Avenue school until 8th grade. He graduated from Neptune High School in 1964.
In January 1966 Otis entered the Air Force, eventually serving in the Vietnam War until his honorable discharge in August 1969. He also served in the NJ Army National Guard and was honorably discharged in 2007. He worked as a custodian at Neptune High School for 26 years, finally retiring in 2014. Otis had a rich work history. Throughout the years, he always kept a side job or three.
Otis married the late Yvette V. Love in 1971. They reared three children: Raymond, Karen, and Dwayne in St. Stephens Manor Apartment Complex. They were married for 28 years, until Yvette passed away in 1999. He was one of the well-known fathers in the community and would work on cars, fix bikes, and settle disputes among the boys. He made friends everywhere he went and knew almost everyone in Asbury Park and Neptune. He was politically active, volunteering with the Democratic party for many years. His hobbies included playing billiards, bowling, and photography.
In retirement, Otis was a devoted father and grandfather, always making it a priority to show up for events and achievements. He loved to travel and was able to visit many countries with his special friend, the late Lisa Campbell. He eventually moved to Union, NJ but took frequent trips back to Asbury Park to visit with family and friends. He was a beloved member of the billiards team for the Senior Center in Union, NJ.
He faced many health challenges throughout 2024 due to congestive heart failure; eventually succumbing to the illness in the VA hospital in East Orange, NJ on Sunday, December 15.
Those left to cherish lasting memories are his three children: Raymond Love, Karen (Edward) Mitchell, and Dwayne Love; his nine grandchildren; his seven great-grandchildren; his siblings Edward Love, Lenora Love, Veronica Love, Patricia Creel, Helen Albany, and Dwight Love; his brotherly and sisterly cousins Doris Starks, Roy Love, and Richard Love; and a host of nieces, nephews, grand nieces, grand nephews, cousins, and friends.
The book of 1 Samuel in the bible tells of a friendship that blossomed between David and Johnathan, King Saul’s son. 1 Samuel 18:3 – And Johnathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself.
In 1958 Otis and I path crossed, and like David and Johnathan, a friendship developed that has never ended. My mother used to tell me that there are two types of friends, friends and so-called friends. When it comes to Otis and me, he was more than a friend
The word “friend” doesn’t give justice to the love that we shared for each other. He was and will always be, a brother to me.
We would often meet and go to Frank’s Deli in Asbury or Irv’s Deli in Neptune for breakfast, where we would attempt to solve the world’s problems. We both enjoyed crossword puzzles, word jumbles and cryptograms. which reminds me of the time I was invited to try out for being a contestant on the Wheel of Fortune best friends’ week, so it meant that I had to bring my best friend with me to New York City. Of course, you know who I called, my best friend “Otis”. We traveled to New York on the train, took the test. However, we weren’t selected, but it was a day we would never forget.
When a loved one passes, we grieve and lament, and although I lament over Otis’s passing, I’m also thankful to God giving me the opportunity of having him as my BFF.
May Otis rest in peace and rise in glory and our path cross again.
James Butler
Almighty God, we trust all who are dear to us to thy never-failing care and love, for this life and the life to come.
Otis, or should I say “Bro. Love”! It has been a pleasure knowing you! We never finished connecting our family dots, but I know the connection are there. R.I.P. my friend, I will truly miss you!!! 💔😢
Sending my love and condolences to D Love, Brian and the entire family.
Mr. Otis will truly be missed by me and my family. He has had a lasting impact on us in many ways and we will never forget his kind ways and loving heart. Rest in peace good sir. Your presence will be missed by many and never forgotten.
Otis was a Great Man. Always had a huge smile and asking about all the family. Life well lived Otis. Rest in the light👏🏽👏🏽🕯️🕯️😞
We’re going to miss Uncle Otis. Sending you our condolences to all of his family, friends, and loved ones.
Janet Singleton & Family
So saddened to hear of the passing of my college roommate’s (Karen’s) father. I remember Otis love as a kind spirited man who always had a smile. Lifting prayers for the family.