Alma Jean (Bazhaw) Otey

It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of Alma Jean Bazhaw on January 13, 2026 at the age of 75. Alma was born to Ingram “I.H.” and Virginia “Jean” Bazhaw in Dothan, Alabama in January of 1951.

She grew up the daughter of a Baptist preacher, and was the middle child to two brothers: Robert and Bruce. In school she excelled at English and was a voracious reader, a hobby that carried on with her well into her later years. 

At Daugherty High School in Albany, GA Alma met and then later married Rick Otey. With him she had three sons, whom she often referred to as her greatest blessings.

She took on a number of roles over the years, almost always dealing with people on a personal level, where her warmth and kindness could be used to help someone. After moving to Oklahoma she found inspiration in exploring her Potawatomi heritage and loved interacting with the tribe in various aspects. 

Alma will be remembered by all who knew her for her heart, her loyalty, and the love and care she had for family and friends. She regarded others’ feelings deeply and as a devout Christian, was the true model of the kind of empathy the stories of Christ teach us. She worked hard to make others feel seen and loved, and was duly loved in return. In her declining years she fell victim to dementia, but she never forgot her family or those who mattered most. 

She is proceeded in death by her mother, father, and brothers. She will be dearly missed by her three sons and their families, as well as many other relatives and friends. 

A memorial will be held Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 2 PM, at 2024 N Woodlawn, Wichita, Kansas.