Ethelyne McDonald Owen

APRIL 30, 1926 – SEPTEMBER 22, 2022

During a brief hospitalization, Ethelyne McDonald Owen, age 96, passed gently from the presence of her loved ones into the arms of Jesus Christ and entered the Church Triumphant on 9/22/2022 at Sanford, Fl.

Predeceasing her are parents, Robert Lewis and Ethel Wall McDonald,Cedar Creek, Fl. as well as her faithful husband of 75 years, JackHarlon Owen, Sanford, FL.

She is survived by her only son and devoted caregiver, Robert Clyde Owen, Orlando, Fl. and her large extended family.

Ethelyne was born in Cedar Creek (known as Bruceville), Fl. and attended East Marion High School, graduating in 1944. There she met Jack Owen when she was 5 years old and he asked her to marry him.

Just before enlistment in the USAF to serve in WWII, they went to the preacher’s home and made their enduring vows on March 26, 1946. They enjoyed the blessing of 74 happy years.

She held positions as bank teller at Florida National Bank, Ocala; church secretary, choir member, church cook at Central Baptist, Sanford; bookkeeper for many years at Hattaway Nurseries, Altamonte Springs, Fl. Later she and Jack established a Special Needs Ministry at Central Baptist Church which is well over 50 years old, and still flourishing.

Ethelyne’s delicious homemade food and Southern hospitality were enjoyed by many at their Payola home and at their Curtis Creek cabin in Western North Carolina. Her peace-loving heart embraced many

sons and daughters of other mothers. She was a faithful servant to Christ, His Church, and her loving large family of nieces and nephews. Whatever the situation, she will be remembered as one who steadfastly brought sunshine into the lives of others.

Memorials may be made to Special Needs Ministry, c/o Central Church, 3101 Fl-46, Sanford, Fl. 32771, where her Celebration of Life will be held at Noon, Friday, October 7, 2022.

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