Willis Gene Owens, Sr., 83, of Decatur passed peacefully in his home Thursday evening, May 30.
He will be remembered by his strong work ethic, uplifting sense of humor and undying love for his family, friends, and most importantly our Savior, Jesus Christ.
He was a Korean War veteran, retired employee from the Army Corps of Engineers, and a deacon/member of Calvary Missionary Baptist Church of Decatur.
He was preceded in death by his father; Carson McKinley Owens; mother, Willie Mae Owens; brothers, Bob and Bud Owens; sisters, Jane Burnette and Mabel Hughes.
He was survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Carolyn Gaines Owens; son and daughter in law, Will and Donna Owens of Zion, Illinois; daughter and son in law, Lisa and Rick Mays; grandchildren, Nick and Stephanie Owens, Tyler Kyle, Brooklyn Hurst, Drew and Matt Mays; sisters and brother in law's, Linda and Hopper McClean, Phyllis and Cecil Malone; brother and sister in law, Billy and Gay Owens of Greeneville, TN; sister in law, Sissy Owens of Decatur; and many special nieces, nephews and friends.
Receiving of friends and family was 5-7 p.m. Saturday at Bowers Funeral Home in Decatur with funeral immediately following and Eric Bell officiating. Family and friends met at 1:45 p.m. Sunday for a 2 p.m. interment with military honors at Bethsadia Baptist Church Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Calvary Missionary Baptist Church of Decatur.
Pallbearers are his close friends; Don Fairbanks, Rick Vaughn, Joey Goins, Gerald Goins, Billy Kyle and Shannon Bishop.