Otis Kenneth "Cooter" Drymond

Otis Kenneth “Cooter” Drymond, 85, passed away peacefully on Tuesday – September 5, 2023 in Houston, Texas. He was born on December 21, 1937 in Cortez, Florida to O.K. and Blanche Idella Drymond. He grew up in Cortez – a small fishing village on the west coast of Florida. He graduated from Manatee High School in 1955. After high school, he served in the Florida National Guard. Otis met Nancy Martin on the beach at Anna Maria Island. He said it was “love at first sight!” Excited to start their new life together – they were married on May 31, 1958. In May 1959, they welcomed their first child – a daughter – Donna Lyn. In January 1962, they welcomed a second daughter – Susan Kay. In October 1973, they were overjoyed to welcome their son – Owen Keith. Otis’ greatest joy was his family and his favorite role was Papa to his 7 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. Otis was an electrician and moved from Florida to Houston, Texas in 1964. He was passionate about his work and made many friends through the years. Otis was celebrated in May 2016, as being a member of the IBEW Local 716 for 50 years – an honor that he was extremely proud of. Otis will always be remembered for his smile, his big hugs and the way that he loved to tell stories (especially about his youth). We will always remember him telling us “I LOVE YOU THE MOSTEST!” We will miss him every day, but will carry him in our hearts forever! Otis was preceded in death by his parents – OK and Blanche Idella Drymond and a baby sister, Mary Rochelle Drymond. He is survived by Nancy – his loving wife of 65 years. Children: Donna & Frank Dittfurth (daughter and son-in-law) Susan & Tommy Thompson (daughter and son-in-law) Keith and Stephanie Drymond (son and daughter-in-law) Grandchildren: Misty and Brandon Thomas (granddaughter and husband) Allison and Ian Moore (granddaughter and husband) Justin and Samantha Thompson (grandson and wife) Kyle and Robin Dittfurth (grandson and wife) Orion Drymond (grandson) Drake Drymond (grandson) Quinley Drymond (granddaughter) Great-grandchildren: Haley and Brayden Thomas Mason and Owen Moore Kayleigh and Jarrett Thompson Knox and Savannah Dittfurth Sister – Janet Pringle and husband Ray Brother – Vince Drymond Additionally, he will be missed by cousins, nieces/nephews and friends. A heartfelt thank you to Special Friend/Caregiver – Maria Dubon for her love and compassionate care. A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date. Otis was so proud of his heritage and his childhood home - Cortez is one of the last remaining fishing villages on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Donations may be made in his memory to the following: CORTEZ CULTURAL CENTER (941) 840-0590 11655 Cortez Rd. W. PO Box 663 Cortez, FL 34215 The Addison family and staff of Magnolia Funeral Home extend condolences to the Drymond family and friends during this difficult time. No services are scheduled through the funeral home.