Otto Baker Hurley

Otto Baker Hurley, age 100, called home to the Lord Tuesday, December 20, 2016 was born on February 20, 1916 to Ora Cunningham Hurley and Harry Hurley. He was their youngest child. His siblings were Russell, Lloyd, and William. Soon after Otto’s birth, his mother died and the boys were placed in separate foster homes. During his early years, Otto was raised by Houston Dudley and Lula Bell. As a teen, he was reunited with his brother William. They rebuilt the family and ensured the next generation kept close ties. In 1940, Otto married Ora Glenn Talley. They were married for 63 years. From this union, they had a daughter Ora Ann. They enjoyed attending church together and spending time in New York with Ora Ann, her husband Sherman Sr, and their children Jocolyn (James), Toyia, and Sherman Jr. In 1953, Otto began working for the State of Ohio, Department of Transportation, and retired in 1988 after 35 years of service. Otto was an active member of the Linden Neighborhood Council and the Prince Hall Masons. Otto’s difficult upbringing helped him build his faith. He was an active member of the First African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church (formerly Caldwell Temple) for more than 50 years, where he served as a steward and class leader. He especially enjoyed being part of the Templeairs, an all-male a cappella musical chorus, and blessed many people with his singing voice for many years. In 1966, God called Otto to preach, and he became ordained. He was pastor of AME Zion churches in Covington, KY and Lincoln Heights, OH. After several years, he returned to First AME Zion Church as an assistant pastor. He served as Chaplin for the American Legion, University East Hospital, and Villa Angela Nursing home. Otto was a prayer warrior – he was committed to passionately praying for others. It was a gift. In 2008, Otto found love for a second time and married Carrie Joyce Queen Burk. He gained three daughters, Margie, Marsha, Nicky; and one son, Marcus. He and Carrie also enjoyed attending church, most recently Path Ministries. They especially enjoyed spending time with their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his first wife, Ora Glenn; son-in-law, Sherman Burks, Sr.; and grand-daughter, Jocolyn Weeks. In addition to his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, Otto leaves a host of nieces, nephews and friends to cherish his memories. The family gives praises to God for allowing Otto to live a full and long life of over 100 years.