Honoring Otis George Goines: Celebrating the Legacy of a Veteran and Community Leader at 81

Otis George Goines, who dedicated his life to the welfare of others, passed away on July 17 at the age of 81.Born on March 10, 1944, Goines was one of six children of Abraham Josephus (AJ) Goines and Mary Beatrice Scott Houston. He graduated from Central State University in Ohio and subsequently served in the U.S. Air Force as an air traffic controller, a pivotal role in averting mid-air collisions and safeguarding countless lives.Following the 1981 air traffic controllers strike, Goines, along with many of his peers, was dismissed by the Ronald Reagan administration. Nonetheless, leveraging his diverse talents, he transitioned to the International Association of Theatrical Stagehands (IATSE), retiring earlier this year after over three decades of committed service.He is survived by his cherished wife of 30 years, Azizza Davis Goines, siblings William (Duke) and Joseph (Joe), sisters-in-law Tina and Claire, as well as a large extended family and many friends. A service honoring Goines took place on August 12 at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Sacramento Black Chamber of Commerce Foundation (EIN: 95-4818938).