In Memoriam
Devotion to Children honors the life and legacy of Amos-Leon Otis, a cherished member of our Advisory Board who passed away in November 2025. Mr. Otis was a distinguished entrepreneur, military veteran, and mentor. His wisdom, leadership, and commitment to service profoundly influenced our organization. We are deeply grateful for his guidance and support. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and all those who were touched by his remarkable life.
Mr. Amos‑Leon’ Otis was frequently recognized for his entrepreneurial and management skills and maintained a lifelong commitment to supporting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). He actively mentored and assisted small, disadvantaged businesses and emerging entrepreneurs, generously sharing his experience and insight.
Mr. Otis was an alumnus of Tennessee State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree, and California State University, where he earned his MBA. He also held a Master of Military Art and Science degree.
In 1987, Mr. Otis founded SoBran, Inc., a technical and professional services company providing support services for biomedical and environmental research, security, and related fields. Under his leadership, SoBran served major government, academic, and commercial organizations and received notable industry recognition. Mr. Otis successfully guided the company’s growth from a startup into a multi‑million‑dollar enterprise.
Prior to founding SoBran, Inc., Mr. Otis completed a distinguished 21‑year career in the United States Air Force. His service included roles as a Titan ICBM Missile Combat Crew Commander; Production and Quality Assurance Specialist serving as the USAF Plant Representative at Hughes Aircraft Corporation; Cost Analyst for major weapons systems at the USAF Aeronautical Systems Division; Comptroller for the 8th Tactical Fighter Wing in Korea; Professor of Air Science for the Howard University AFROTC program; and Program Manager at the Air Force Office of Scientific Research.
We are honored to have benefited from Mr. Otis’s service and leadership.