Otho T. Kortz Jr.

I had the privilege of meeting Mr. Kortz long after his distinguished career as a game official ended and, although he'd recount stories if asked about his storied life, he very much lived in the present and never burdened anyone with tired stories about the past. His passion for athletics as well as his appreciation for the sacrifices and accomplishments of thousands of young athletes in the here and now to the very end is inspiring. Yet, the love and devotion to his family that I saw for...

Otho and my dad, Bill Filson, were friends for many years. I have many fond memories of him joining us on our trips to see the state high school baseball tournaments. He was very excited when I decided to attend Ole Miss and we had dinner when he came to officiate the Spring football game. He was a special man.