Elizabeth Joan Owens

Elizabeth “Jo” Owens of Cypress, Texas was born February 1, 1935, in Louisiana. She passed away peacefully on January 4, 2026, after a brief battle with cancer. She left behind a legacy defined by having fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith until her departure to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Jo was married to Ralph Owens, Jr, for nearly 40 years before his passing in 2001.

Jo lived a life devoted to servanthood, focusing on her family, community, and faith. Her primary passion was missions, aiming to spread the gospel worldwide. She and her family served as missionaries in Indonesia for four years with Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF), a period she regarded as the best years due to her complete dependence on Jesus Christ. Beyond Indonesia, she supported missionaries from various regions including Romania, the Middle East, France, and the 1040 window. Jo also participated in numerous mission trips to countries such as Tunisia, Georgia, Romania, and Tajikistan. Her love for travel was reflected in her collection of paintings from these journeys, each accompanied by a personal story.

After missionary service Jo had a promising career in the apartment industry with roles that spanned from apartment manager to regional manager. Jo was a driven and passionate professional, consistently setting high standards for herself and those around her. She expected the best from her staff, yet she balanced it with grace and love and generously giving her all to everyone in her sphere. Those who had the privilege of working with Jo or crossing her path were deeply impacted. She inspired people of all ages and maintained deep, lasting relationships throughout her life, nurturing them with care, generosity, and the gospel. She is remembered as a loving wife, mother (Ibu), and grandmother (Nanek). She often expressed resilience with the phrase, “This nine zero is hard,” followed by the hopeful affirmation, “This Too Shall Pass.”

Jo was preceded in death by her parents, Willie and Gladys Gongre; her brothers Marvin and Eric; and her sons James Alan Curtis and John Michael Curtis. She is survived by her sons Donald Owens (and wife Christine), Chip Owens (and wife Renie), and Dennis Owens. Additionally, her sisters-in-law Margaret Gongre and Mary Jane Gongre survive her. Her extended family includes fourteen grandchildren, eighteen great-grandchildren, several great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many other relatives and friends.

Her family references Proverbs 31:28-31, underscoring the virtuous character and legacy of Jo Owens.

A private burial will be held for family and close friends.

A “Celebration of Life” will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at 10:00 AM at Bridgepoint Bible Church, 13277 Katy Freeway, Houston, Texas 77079

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you consider donations made to:

Missionary: Alina Voda

Online giving: https://www.globalreap.org/

Mail: Reap International

P O Box 10972

Fairbanks, Alaska 99710

Missionary: Sorin Prodan

Online giving: https://give.heartcrymissionary.com/

Thank you