Obituary of Otis Barnes Boswell

Otis Boswell, 96, entered his eternal home with Jesus on February 21, 2025. A lifelong resident of Ragland, Alabama, he made his mark on generations of family, coworkers,and friends. Born on May 11,1928 to Duke and Velma Boswell, he served his beloved nation in the United States Marine Corp in the Pacific Theater during World War II and the Korean conflict. On August 6, 1948, he married the love of his life, Dolly McDill. After finishing his service during the Korean conflict, he returned to Ragland with his bride and began work at National Cement Company. There, he set a high standard for excellence over the next 47 years eventually leading the company as a Maintenance Supervisor. Otis and Dolly became some of the most respected citizens of St. Clair County. They raised four daughters, Deborah Ford (Steve), Pamela Phillips (Johnny), Angela Cobb (Greg), and Jennifer Clark (Bill). They eventually welcomed grandchildren Josh Ford (Brooke), John Mark Ford (Leanne), Nancy Phillips (Edrick), Stedman Poe (Ashley), Katie Clark Spinks (Justin), Jacob Clark (Caley). For Otis, enough love brought in great grandchildren Cade Walker, Lucy Ford, Cameron Anoot, Cooper Ford, Barrett Ford, Payton Nickerson, Wyatt Spinks, Gatlin Spinks, Campbell Clark. Otis had special adopted children, Anne Glidewell and Kelvin Byers. He leaves many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his wife, Dolly Boswell, his parents, Duke and Velma Boswell; brothers Clovis Boswell, Benson Boswell, Edward Boswell, Eugene Boswell, son in law, Johnny Phillips, and several brothers and sisters in law. Having received Jesus Christ as his personal Savior in 1956, he dedicated his life to the Great Commission by modeling to others Jesus’s love. He was a lay leader at Creekside Christian Church where he partnered in ministry with others from the Ragland community. Otis was a devoted member of the Ragland VFW and the James D. Truss Masonic Lodge #515, just earning his 75-year pin a few years ago. Mr. Boswell was a man of extreme compassion and strength. Pall Bearers include Josh Ford, John Mark Ford, Stedman Poe, Jacob Clark, Justin Spinks, Cade Walker. Honorary Pall Bearers are Cooper Ford, Barrett Ford, Wyatt Spinks, Gatlin Spinks. Standing guard are Masons from the James D. Truss Lodge. The family wishes to extend much love and thanks to Lakeside Hospice, Anne Glidewell, Rose Swann, Jasper Hardwick, and Nick McAffey. He will be missed by his family and friends. The family will receive friends at Creekside Christian Church from 1:00 pm until 3:00 pm on Sunday, February 23, 2025, followed by the funeral servcie at 3:00 pm with Bro. Anthony Ragsdale and Bro. Jack Washington officiating. Interment will be at Ragland Methodist Cemetery. Condolences may be offered online at www.usreyfuneralhome.com. Usrey Funeral Home – Pell City is in charge of arrangements.