Over the past few months, Edward Osborne visited the offices of various organizations across Birmingham and beyond on a mission to carry out the legacy of Edward J. Ott, his grandfather. Included in these visits was a stop at the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham, where he presented a donation. 

 “Growing up in Birmingham, I too had times when I needed assistance,” Osborne said. “In those times God provided through blessings that I never knew I had access to through foundations like these.”  

Osborne felt confident that a donation to the Community Foundation would help provide resources to others in need. He also knew that supporting an organization like the Community Foundation would help carry on his grandparents’ legacy of giving.  

“He instilled in me the benefits of going out of my way to help people,” Osborne said of his grandfather, who was a highly decorated Army veteran. After being honorably discharged, Ott continued serving his country by working for the Internal Revenue Service until retirement.  

Growing up, Osborne saw his grandfather venture into parts of town he’d never visited before to have candid conversations with people about their needs – and do all he could to help. He went to thrift stores and would pay for items in people’s carts and give them cash. On holidays, he visited families in need to deliver gifts and food.  

Giving back was always a family affair. Osborne shared that his aunt Doris Tate had no children of her own yet gave generously to organizations that helped Birmingham area youth and underprivileged families.  

Osborne said, however, that one of the most noteworthy things about Ott’s life was his devotion to his wife Ruth. When Ruth was suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia and had to be admitted to a nursing home for around-the-clock care, Ott moved into the facility as well, even though he wasn’t ill.  

“Even though she wouldn’t recognize the love of her life somedays, he would be by her side and flirt with her like it was their first date, every day making her smile,” Osborne said. “Love truly conquers all.”