Christian Radio Pioneer George Otis Sr. Dies

Pioneering Christian broadcaster George K. Otis Sr. died July 22 at his home in Murrieta, Calif. He was 90.

The founder of the Voice of Hope Radio Network, Otis launched shortwave radio stations around the globe, and his ministry in Israel later started what came to be known as Middle East Television. High Adventure Ministries, which Otis founded in 1979, continues to broadcast news, Bible teaching and audio Bible readings worldwide from Jerusalem.

“When the Lord made George Otis he threw away the mold,” said Pat Robertson, founder of Christian Broadcasting Network, which purchased a station in the Middle East through a partnership with Otis. “He was quite a man who had irrepressible joy and enthusiasm. He will be remembered fondly for his wonderful work with Voice of Hope ministries, and he will be greatly missed.”

Otis was well-known for his commitment to Israel and met with Prime Ministers Yitzhak Rabin, Menachem Begin and Shimon Peres. In addition to its gospel broadcasts, High Adventure has provided humanitarian aid in Israel for decades.

Otis was the author of more than a dozen books, including his autobiography, High Adventure. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Virginia; sons George Otis Jr. and Don Otis; and three daughters, Kay Smith, April McCallum and Heather Tayloe.