It is with heavy hearts that the Gary Owens Family shares the news of his peaceful passing on December 23, 2020, at the age of 65. Gary Owens faced his health challenges with remarkable courage and a constant smile, a testament to his enduring spirit. Known affectionately as “Murph,” a nickname honoring his maternal grandfather, Gary Lynn Owens was a devoted man of faith who placed his family at the center of his life, demonstrating genuine love and care in every interaction. Gary found immense joy in life’s simple moments. He is lovingly remembered and survived by his wife of 45 years, Mary Owens, a truly loyal and devoted partner. His legacy continues through his seven children: Renacka, Amanda, David, Wilneathia, Norman, Tony, and Liliana, and further flourishes with seventeen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Born on October 6, 1955, to the late Johnny H. and Stella Murph Owens, Gary’s early life began in Lynch, Kentucky. He was baptized at a young age at Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, marking the beginning of his lifelong faith journey. His childhood was filled with adventure and energy, revealing early talents in both music and athletics. Gary’s passion for music blossomed in high school where he, along with friends, formed “The Mugs,” a band where he showcased his vocal and guitar skills. His musical talents extended to the Lynch School Band, where he played the trumpet. Beyond music, Gary excelled as an athlete, earning recognition as an All CVC player in football during his senior year, demonstrating his exceptional skills in both basketball and football.
After graduating high school, Gary Owens moved to Louisville and pursued his athletic dreams by playing semi-professional basketball for a period. His enthusiasm for sports extended to his favorite teams, the Louisville Cardinals and the Pittsburg Steelers, and he also gained recognition as an award-winning horseshoe pitcher, showcasing his diverse talents and interests.
Alongside his beloved wife and children, Gary Owens is survived by Katherine (Aunt Kat) McCrewell, and his siblings: Henry (Sandra) Mason, Delores Mason, Johnny (Donna) Owens, Jr, Sharon Kay Owens, Beverly Owens, Constance Owens, and Pamela Owens. Each of these individuals held a special place in Gary’s life and family.
A celebration of Gary Owens’ life will be held on Monday, January 4, 2021, at 10:30 a.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, located at 10304 Dixie Hwy, Louisville, KY. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at Cave Hill Cemetery, 701 Baxter Ave, Louisville, KY, where his memory will be eternally honored.
Gary Owens’ life, even with the challenges of a failing heart, shone brightly as a beacon of love and inspiration for everyone who knew him. His memory will be cherished and kept alive by the extensive Gary Owens family and friends whose lives he touched.
