Luther Kermit Owens Jr., born 4/14/1948 to Luther Kermit Owens Sr. and Susie Pierce Owens of Cumberland Gap, TN. He was a high school graduate of Middlesboro High School and college graduate of LMU, where he obtained his degree in Education. He spent his first years out of college teaching, but found his passion as a park ranger at Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, where he spent 33 years. Upon retirement, he spent his days hunting, going to Waffle King with his other retired buddies and spending time with his family. He was an active member at Shawanee Baptist Church, where he was a deacon.
Kermit now joins his parents and sister, Saundra Smith in Heaven.
Leaving behind his beloved wife Barbara Kirk Owens of Pennington Gap, VA and their three sons, Robert Lawrence Owens (Courtney), Jeremy Alan Owens (Offie), Matthew McKinney Owens (Jennifer) and his grandchildren Knox, Nash, JC, Zander, Axel, Jay and Alana. He is also survived by his nephew, Steve Smith. As well as a host of nieces, nephews, other family and friends.
To know Kermit was to love him. Kermit was like a turtle, hard outer shell, but soft on the inside. He was loyal, loving, and brought laughter to all conversations. He was the kind of person that made time for everybody, that showed up to help with arduous tasks- often without being asked. Acts of service was how he showered his family with his love.
In lieu of flowers the family would like donations be made to the Shawanee Baptist Church building fund in his name. Make checks to Shawanee Baptist Church and send to 780 Shawanee Rd Harrogate TN 37752, with a memo 'In Memory of Kermit Owens Building Fund'.
The family will receive friends Sunday September 10, 2023 from 3 until 5 PM at Shawanee Baptist Church in Harrogate. A celebration of life will follow at 5 PM at Shawanee Baptist Church in Harrogate.
Officiating: Donnie Fox
Singers: Megan Karg and Nikki Evans
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.coffey-fh.com for the Owens family.
