Otto Demar Christian was special to many people, especially to his loving daughters, Tara and Nicole Gibson. Known affectionately by many as “Automatic,” Otto earned this nickname because he was always ready to help others — “Otto-matically.” He truly had a heart of gold, and those who knew him will always remember his generosity, strength, and fearless spirit.
Otto was one of the strongest men many of us ever knew. There was no job too big or too small for him. Whether it was helping loved ones move entire homes by himself or stepping up whenever someone was in need, Otto was always there. Even during difficult times in his own life, he never hesitated to lend a helping hand.
Many in the community remember Otto for going viral for a gadget he invented to transport his grandchildren, pulling them around the west side of Akron while people captured photos and videos of his creativity and devotion. His love for his family was always on display.
Otto was also known for his bravery and selflessness. He once saved the lives of several children who had broken into Perkins Pool and found themselves in danger because they could not swim. Without hesitation, Otto jumped over the fence and rescued them, an act that was later captured by a bystander and shared in the Akron Beacon Journal. On another occasion, he saved a family member who had been pushed into a pool and could not swim. Otto never stopped to ask questions — he simply acted. Many who knew him often wondered how he even learned to swim, but one thing was certain: he was fearless and always willing to help, even if it meant saving a stranger.
Otto was preceded in death by his grandparents, James and Ida Thomas; his parents, Pennsylvania and Flora Christian; his sisters, Wanda Butler, Laquetta Jones, and Denise Cook; and his brother, Timothy Christian. He was also welcomed into eternal rest by special cousins Gwendolyn Campbell, Sharon Harris, and Tammy; his aunts Cordell Thomas Benford and Lucille Thomas; and his uncles, Roy Thomas, Marion (Eugene) Thomas, David Thomas, Charles Thomas, Barney Thomas, and Nathaniel Thomas.
He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved daughters, Tara and Nicole Gibson; his grandchildren, ShellVon McDonald, Karter Gibson, Richard McDonald Jr., Darah Rumph, and Ryder Gibson-Taylor; his brothers, Carl Thomas and Damon and Darryl Taylor; and his sisters, Coranetta Christian, Nana Christian, and Jequetta Taylor.; his nieces, Tinika Logan, Carlotta Pace, Shanear Butler, Margo Christian, and Laquetta Wright; his nephews, Marc Christian, Ray Christian, Marcus and Maurice Butler, and Melvin Jones; his special brothers, Willie Thomas and Willie Ellis; and a host of other family members and loved ones who will forever hold his memory in their hearts.
Otto’s life was defined by courage, generosity, and love for his family and community. His legacy will live on in the many lives he touched, the people he helped, and the unforgettable memories he created.