Corry W. Oakes III, co-founder and CEO of OTO Development, died unexpectedly on Aug. 7, the Spartanburg-based hotel development and hospitality management company announced Aug. 8.
He was 55.
Oakes was a native of Lawrenceville, Georgia, and moved to the Upstate in 1985 to attend Wofford College. While pursuing his bachelor’s degree, he played outside linebacker for the Terriers.
He worked with George Dean Johnson Jr.’s WJB Blockbuster Video. He also served as president and chief operating officer with Extended Stay America.
In May 2004, Oakes co-founded OTO Development with Johnson, Todd Turner, Jim Ovenden, and the late H. Wayne Huizenga.
“Corry was a beloved leader and a dear friend to so many in our community and our industry,” said Turner, who also serves as OTO Development’s vice president of real estate. “His impact on our lives is as immeasurable as the grief we feel and the love for him and his family.”
Oakes also served as a member of Wofford’s Terrier Club board of directors, President’s Advisory Board and Wofford College board of trustees from 2009-2021. He served as chairman of the board of trustees from 2019-2021.
He is survived by his wife, Amy, and their three daughters, Ashley, Elizabeth and Lauren.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
