God’s humble servant, Otha Junish Weaver Junior was born on June 14, 1951 to the parentage of Mrs. Betty Mae Pearson Thompson and Mr. Theodis Weaver in McNeil, Arkansas.

Otha grew up on his Grandparents, the late Lee and Queen Ester Pearson farm. He often spoke of harvest time. It was hard work but a most humbling experience. Otha would say, “There’s nothing like eating a fresh tomato on the back of Papa’s wagon, or in the fields, or walking from the fields to the house.” But the best of the harvest was when he rode his bike to share the harvest with all the neighbors and relatives. With each turn of the bike pedal, Otha was building strong character traits such as responsibility, respectfulness, trustworthiness, and caring.

Otha began his education in the Columbia County School and attended McNeil Schools. Otha graduated from McNeil Northside High School in 1969.

In May of 1969, Otha moved to Dallas and worked for Interstate Brands (Hostess Cake) for 30 years. During his employment, he was a supervisor, union representative, and a salesman.

On December 19, 1992, Otha married Rose Curry of Haynesville, Louisiana.

Otha, Rose, Angie, and Brandon started a life together as a family. Otha realized at an early age the importance of family. He often said that at the end of the day all we have left is FAMILY.

In June of 1999, Otha along with Deacon James Dykes, the late Deacon R. Q. McGowan and the late Deacon Russell Moulton established the First Fellowship Baptist Church. Deacon Weaver’s adoration, love, and respect for these men cannot be expressed in words. Deacon Weaver served First Fellowship well. He served as Choir President, Church Van Driver, Finance Committee, and Building Maintenance Chairmen. His First Fellowship family has always been apart of his extended family. He loved singing and sharing the love of God with others. He never met a stranger and made everyone feel like family.

On January 16, 2023 at his home surrounded by loved ones, Deacon Weaver went home to be with the Lord. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 30 years, Rose C. Weaver, his daughter, Angela Weaver, and his son, Brandon Thomas of Dallas, Texas. Surviving siblings are Helen Roach (Ira) of McNeil, Arkansas, Betty Ann Redmon of Liberty, Texas, Lee Leaks (Ruby) of McNeil, Arkansas, and Donald Ray George (Schnorra) of McNeil, Arkansas, and Joe Braxton Sr., brother-in-law of Houston, Texas. Surviving Uncles are: W. C. Timms of Magnolia, Arkansas and Henry Weaver of Magnolia, Arkansas. Surviving Aunts are: Francis Russ of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Dorothy Moore and Pearlena of Little Rock, Arkansas. His godchildren are Cedric and Tameeka Barber, Ty Jackson, and Neema Gbegan. He is survived by a loving host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. Otha’s sister, Sharee Weaver preceded him in death.