Otis Lamont Williams, the only son of Otis Williams the founding member and sole surviving original member of the legendary Motown group The Temptations led a life that, though brief, left an indelible mark on his family’s legacy. Born in 1961, Lamont’s life was tragically cut short at the age of 24 due to a workplace accident. Despite his untimely passing, his story remains a poignant chapter in the history of one of soul music’s most iconic families.
Quick Bio Table
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Otis Lamont Williams (also known as Otis Lamont Miles) |
Born | 1961 |
Parents | Otis Williams (father), Josephine Rogers (mother) |
Profession | Construction worker |
Date of Death | August 8, 1985 |
Age at Death | 24 years old |
Cause of Death | Workplace accident in Detroit, Michigan |
Legacy | Remembered as the son of Otis Williams, founding member of The Temptations |
Early Life and Family Background
Otis Lamont Williams was born in 1961 to Otis Williams and his first wife, Josephine Rogers. His birth coincided with the early years of The Temptations’ formation, a group that would go on to become one of Motown’s most influential acts. The couple divorced in 1964, and Lamont was raised primarily by his mother, Josephine, in Detroit, Michigan.
Growing up in the vibrant city of Detroit, Lamont was exposed to the rich musical heritage that permeated the area. While there is limited public information about his personal interests and pursuits, it is evident that he was part of a family deeply embedded in the music industry.

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Tragic Passing
On August 8, 1985, at the age of 24, Otis Lamont Williams tragically lost his life in a workplace accident while working as a construction worker in Detroit. The details surrounding the accident remain scarce, but his untimely death was a devastating blow to his family, particularly to his father, Otis Williams, who had already faced numerous challenges in his personal and professional life.
Legacy and Remembrance
Despite the brevity of his life, Otis Lamont Williams’ legacy endures through the stories shared by his family and the memories cherished by those who knew him. His father, Otis Williams, has often spoken about the profound impact of losing his only child. In interviews, he has expressed how the pain of that loss was somewhat alleviated by the joy and solace he found in performing with The Temptations, using music as a means to cope with his grief.
The Temptations’ music, characterized by its soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics, continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. Through their songs, the memory of Otis Lamont Williams lives on, intertwined with the rich tapestry of Motown history.

Conclusion
The life of Otis Lamont Williams, though short-lived, serves as a poignant reminder of the personal stories that intertwine with the public personas of musical legends. As the son of Otis Williams, he remains an integral part of the narrative of The Temptations, a group that continues to inspire and influence artists and fans around the world. Through the enduring music of The Temptations, the memory of Otis Lamont Williams lives on, a testament to a life that, while brief, was filled with promise and potential.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who was Otis Lamont Williams?
- Otis Lamont Williams was the only son of Otis Williams, the founding member of The Temptations. He was born in 1961 and tragically passed away in 1985.
- What was the cause of Otis Lamont Williams’ death?
- He died in a workplace accident while working as a construction worker in Detroit, Michigan.
- How old was Otis Lamont Williams when he died?
- He was 24 years old at the time of his death.
- Did Otis Lamont Williams have any children?
- There is no public record of Otis Lamont Williams having children.
- Was Otis Lamont Williams involved in the music industry?
- There is no publicly available information indicating that Otis Lamont Williams pursued a career in the music industry.
- How did Otis Williams cope with the loss of his son?
- Otis Williams has mentioned that performing with The Temptations helped him cope with the grief of losing his son.
- Is there a tribute to Otis Lamont Williams in The Temptations’ music?
- While there are no specific songs dedicated to Otis Lamont Williams, his memory is honored through the enduring legacy of The Temptations’ music.
- Where can I learn more about Otis Lamont Williams?
- Information about Otis Lamont Williams can be found through various biographies and documentaries about The Temptations and Otis Williams.
- Did Otis Lamont Williams’ death affect The Temptations’ music?
- While his death was a personal tragedy for Otis Williams, there is no direct evidence linking it to changes in The Temptations’ musical direction.
- Is there a memorial for Otis Lamont Williams?
- There is no widely known public memorial for Otis Lamont Williams; however, his memory is preserved through his family’s stories and the legacy of The Temptations.
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