In Loving Memory of Otis Bryant "Dakota" Guess Sr.
With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of Otis Bryant "Dakota" Guess Sr., who departed this life on March 31, 2025, at the age of 65. Born on March 15, 1960, in New London, Connecticut, he was the beloved son of the late Otis Howard and Patricia E. Guess.
A proud graduate of New London High School, Otis was a hardworking man who took great pride in providing for his family. As a CDL holder, he traveled cross-country as a driver for Rogovin’s Moving & Storage, always boasting about his ability to drive anything. Later, he dedicated years of service to the City of New London, beginning in the sanitation department before transitioning to public works, where he built lifelong connections. His children often joked about how a simple drive through town turned into countless stops to greet family and friends—Otis never met a stranger and was always eager to share a smile and conversation.
For over a decade, he worked at Southeastern Area Transit (S.E.A.T.) as a servicer, earning the admiration and hearts of many.
Otis, Native name Dakota, was deeply connected to his Narragansett heritage. He spent much of his time researching his roots and was an active member of the Northern Narragansett Indian Tribal Council. Recently, he accepted the honored position of Sub-Chief for the Northeastern Narragansett Native Nation, a role that reflected his dedication to his people and their traditions.
A die-hard Dallas Cowboys fan, he proudly declared every season as “their year.” His love for music was equally strong, with favorites like New Edition, Boyz II Men, and Otis Redding always playing. He found immense joy in celebrating the achievements of his family, whom he cherished deeply. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild were the center of his world.
As best said by his only son and namesake:
"Remember the joy he brought. He was a wonderful man who was called home by God. Let’s remember his spirit, his laughter, and his love—and hold on to that."
Otis leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, survived by his children: Quineisha Guess, Otis Guess Jr., Domonique Guess, Sheala Guess, and Jayda Guess; his siblings: Sherrie Guess, Laurice Guess-Braggs (Alonzo), Michelle Strother-Moody (Charlie), and Christine Rene-Howard; his brothers: Robert Guess (Edith) and Paul Howard; his grandchildren: Greg Santora, Wilbur Mack Jr., Quinnell Mack, Cheyanne Santora, Malcolm Lyles, Marquan Hooks, Ahlyanah Santora, Messiah Hooks, and Malachi Guess; and his great-grandchild: Nyomi Santora. He is also lovingly remembered by his devoted girlfriend, Valerie Isaacs, who stood by his side until the end, and his ex-wife and the mother of his children, Connie Dixon.
He was predeceased by his children, Jermaine and Angelina Guess; his brothers, Shawn and Larry Guess; his grandchildren, Marcel and Ma’honie Hooks; his long-standing girlfriend and mother of his child, Jesica Faulkner; and his sister-in-law, Lorchele Howard.
Otis also leaves behind a large and loving extended family, including aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends who will forever cherish his memory.
Service to start at 3 PM Byles Memorial Home, 99 Huntington Street, New London. Repast information to be announced.
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