Macon Magazine

Otis Redding III December 17, 1963 – April 18, 2023 ON THE EVE OF APRIL 18TH, Otis Redding III transitioned to the celestial arena. As an adolescent, he attended Mount De Sales Academy in Macon. He eventually moved to Silver Spring, Maryland to pursue his music career with his brother Dexter Redding and friend Mark Lockett and graduated from St. John's Military College and High School. The three men formed the group "The Reddings" and gained a plethora of accolades for their hit songs and performances. He inherited a rich musical legacy from his father, the legendary Otis Redding Jr. At a young age, Otis Redding III began playing guitar and singing, The Reddings achieved chart success with their unique sound and toured extensively throughout the United States and Europe. Otis III continued his musical career as a solo artist, exploring both R&B and blues in his many recordings, including the 2017 track "Dance, Dance, Dance" and sharing his talent with the world as he traveled and performed internationally. In addition to his prolific career as a musical artist, Otis Redding III had a passion for supporting his community. Lovingly called O3 by his family, he took up the philanthropic mission of his father and mother. One of the many ways he supported the Middle Georgia region was in his role as the Board Chair for Meals on Wheels of Middle Georgia Inc. in Macon. He had a heart for the elderly and took up the charge to defeat food insecurity. He also mentored young musicians through the Mentor's Project and the Otis Redding Foundation's various camps and programs. For many years, Otis Redding III served on the Board of Directors for the Macon Transit Authority and as a Trustee for The Historic Macon Foundation. He was also a member of St. Peter Claver Catholic Church, also in Macon, where he was actively involved in events and services. O3 is preceded in death by his father, Otis Redding Jr., and is survived by his mother, Zelma; his siblings, Karla Redding-Andrews (Timothy), Dexter Redding and Demetria Redding; his devoted girlfriend, April Stephens; his uncle, Luther Rodgers Redding; his aunts, Louise McClain and Deborah Redding; his niece, Destiny Redding, and nephews, Justin Andrews, Jarred Andrews, and Bryant Bradley; along with numerous other cousins, special friends, and business associates. Otis Redding III will be fondly remembered as a multi-talented musician and a kind-hearted man who handled his family legacy with style and grace. To recognize and honor the passions of Otis Redding III, donations may be made to the Otis Redding Foundation, Meals on Wheels of Middle Georgia Inc., or the Historic Macon Foundation. — THE REDDING FAMILY PHOTO BY MARYANN BATES PHOTOS BY MARYANN BATES In Memoriam 94 maconmagazine.com | JUNE/JULY 2023

• Cover