Otto Martin Ranney

Otto Martin Ranney, 90, of Owensboro, went home to be with the Lord on September 5, 2025, while under the care of Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Kentucky. He was born on February 18, 1935, to the late Guy Nolan Ranney II and Dora Gwendolyn “Tootsie” Martin Ranney.

Otto devoted his career to architecture, beginning in 1960 with Max Bisson & Associates. In 1978, he established his own practice, which grew into RBS Design Group Architecture with the addition of partners. After 28 years with the firm, he retired in 2006. Throughout his career, Otto played a key role in designing most of the schools in Daviess County and surrounding counties, as well as numerous churches, offices, and other buildings across Western Kentucky. He was also a mentor to many who aspired to become architects, generously sharing his knowledge and passion for design with the next generation.

A gifted carpenter and woodworker, Otto created pieces that remain loved by his family. He also enjoyed photography, capturing family gatherings and holidays, and proudly served as team photographer for the Daviess County High School girls’ soccer team during his granddaughter’s time on the field.

Otto was well known for his “Ottoisms,” short pearls of wisdom always delivered with a grin. His favorite was the 5 Ps, sometimes stretched to 6 Ps when he wanted to drive the point home: “Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance.” He also liked to remind people, “If you start on time, you’ll finish on time.” And when it was time to part ways, his trademark farewell was always the same: “Keep your nose clean.”

Otto’s faith was the foundation of his life. He was a devoted member of Walnut Memorial Baptist Church, where he served as both Deacon and Trustee.

He met the love of his life, Carolyn Lee Cole, a nurse, after being introduced on a blind date arranged by his sister, also a nurse. Otto and Carolyn were married on February 22, 1958. Together, they raised three sons, actively supporting them in all their activities, taking them camping, teaching them the value of a dollar, and guiding them in faith. That same love and devotion extended to their grandchildren, who were deeply blessed by his presence in their lives.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Katherine Ranney, and siblings, Charlotte Weidenmuller, Guy Nolan "Sonny" Ranney III, and William Rance Ranney.

Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife of 67 years, Carolyn Lee Ranney; sons, Michael Ranney (Peggy), Guy Ranney (Clift), and Patrick Ranney (Debbie); grandchildren, Meredith Ranney Pinto (Kevin), Morgan Ranney; great-grandchildren, Henry and Author Pinto; and sisters, Gwendolyn Barrett and Deeann Elliot.

A graveside service for Otto will be held at 3:00 pm, Thursday, September 11, 2025, at Elmwood Cemetery.

Care has been entrusted to Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to The Heartford House, 2914 Old Hartford Rd, Owensboro, KY 42303

Messages and condolences for the family may be offered at www.glenncares.com.