Ottis Bernard Strother, 84, of Holland, MI, passed away Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at Medilodge of Zeeland. Born April 15, 1941 in Somerdale, OH, he was the son of the late Ottis Denmark Strother and Evelyn Mary Strother. Bernie, as he was affectionately known, loved the Chicago Cubs, his flowers, watching Antiques Roadshow, doing crossword puzzles and spending time with his pet birds, Otto and Lucky. He had worked as a teacher and Director of Guidance at Covert Public Schools for thirty years, retiring in 1997. Bernie was the Pastor of Glenn United Methodist Church for twenty-five years, retiring in 1998. His calling as pastor and guidance counselor was his true passion in life. Bernie lived in South Haven for over thirty years before he moved to Holland in 1998. Bernie loved sharing his life stories and wisdom with everyone he encountered in his life; that’s just who he was. He will be truly missed by everyone that knew and loved him.

Bernie is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Carolyn Sue and Tom Brown of New Philadelphia, OH; twelve nieces and nephews; twenty-three great nieces and nephews; and close friends (adopted kids) Terry Van Kampen, Melody Steinberg, Melissa Rios and Ryder Rodriguez. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister and brother-in-law, Nancy and Walter Berry, Jr. of Ohio.

In accordance with Bernie’s wishes, cremation has taken place and services will take place privately.