Mr. Otis Milton Belk

Otis Milton Belk, known by so many as Mr. "GQ" departed his earthly home peacefully surrounded by family on Tuesday, January 15, 2019 after a short illness. Otis was born on May 24, 1929 in Lancaster, South Carolina to the late Otis Belk, Jr. and Connie McIiwain. He was the second born of four children. The family relocated to Alexandria, VA in the early 1940's. At an early age Otis gave his life to Christ through Baptism at the Beulah Baptist Church of Alexandria, VA and received the right hand of fellowship at Oakland Baptist Church. Following a brief, but intense courtship, on July 15, 1950 Otis married the love of his life, the late Claudine Evans, who according to him, was the cutest girl in Alexandria! They were married over 61 years and raised five children: Cordell (deceased 2007); Constance (Jerome); Cheryl; Dino (Kimmara); and Darryl (deceased 1988). Otis, from an early age had a determined entrepreneurial “can do” spirit. When his father became ill, Otis was forced to enter the work force at 16 to help his family make ends meet. He landed his first job at Brown's Men's Shop as a custodian and moved up the ranks to pressor and seamstress when needed. He soon became the first Black salesman on King Street in what is now historic Old Town Alexandria. Otis was the go-to salesman when the men of the city wanted that RIGHT look. With his smooth demeanor, always looking dapper in his style and grace, he knew and loved his job. He had a special personal rapport with his customers. After leaving Brown's Men's Shop with over twenty-five years of service, he took his skill to Steven Windsor, Kuppenheimer Men's Clothing, and SYMS where he retired in 2008. Throughout his long successful career in men’s fashion, Otis left behind a legacy of hundreds of men who, after a consultation with him, stood a little taller, looked a little better and embraced the Otis Belk motto, “Man you can’t buy style. You got to earn that.” He also knew and understood the importance of public service and giving back. He was affiliated with the Departmental Progressive Club of Alexandria for over 52 years. He was a proud contributing member of the Democratic National Committee. He leaves to cherish his memory his oldest daughter Joyce Ann Boston, (21) grandkids, (54) great grandkids, and (36) great-great grandkids in addition to a host of nieces, and nephews and wide circle of other relatives and friends. Now that's a tribe. His loving sister Clara Lee, brothers Jasper and Lonnie, Sr. preceded him in death. He was an exceptionally good man who loved his family; was a loyal friend; a man of strong faith and never saw a crooked tie he didn’t want to straighten. We will miss him.

Mr. Otis Milton Belk

May 24, 1929 - January 15, 2019

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