Nicolette Brooke Owens

Nicolette Brooke Owens, lovingly known as “Nikki,” passed away unexpectedly on Sunday morning, March 8, 2026. Born on August 18, 1991, in Lexington County, South Carolina, she was the cherished daughter of Susan Frances Mazzone of Lexington. Her father was the late Kevin Scott Owens.

Growing up in the Lexington Red Bank area, Nikki attended White Knoll High School, where her vibrant personality began to shine. Nikki was a petite young woman with a remarkable spirit. Despite her self-effacing nature, her talents were many. She was a gifted flutist, an imaginative storyteller, and an exceptional calligrapher. Her warmth and empathy made her a great listener, and she never met a stranger. Described as a “ray of sunshine” by her mother, she had an unwavering ability to see the good in others, even those who mistreated her, and was quick to forgive.

Her love for animals was boundless; she dreamed of becoming a veterinarian and aspired to own an animal sanctuary. A true “Dr. Doolittle” at heart, she dedicated countless hours to rescuing and caring for creatures great and small, from dogs to turtles, and was especially proud of her recent venture into raising chickens. Nikki’s enthusiasm for life extended to her love for music, dance, and playful moments with her siblings.

Family was at the center of Nikki’s world. She cherished every moment spent with her children, Dawson and Rayne, engaging in fishing trips, crafting, and capturing silly memories with countless filters. She found joy in classic films, especially “The Wilderness Family” and “The Call of the Wild,” which further reflected her appreciation for adventure and nature. Nikki will be deeply missed by all who knew her and forever remembered for her kindness, compassion and radiant spirit.

She is survived by her beloved mother, Susan Frances Mazzone of Lexington; stepfather Anthony Scoggin of Columbia, her husband, Michael Nowinski of Pelion; her son, Dawson Owens of Pelion; and her daughter, Rayne Nowinski of Pelion.

Nikki is also mourned by her siblings: Tyler Owens (Stephanie) of Lexington, Adrian Scoggin (Josie) of Lexington, Madeline Scoggin (Tyler) of West Columbia, and Genevieve “Genna” Owens Bowman (Andrew) of Gainesville, Florida; beloved grandmother, Gloria Mazzone of Inman; step-grandmother, Ruby Tiedman of Lexington, grandfather, Marshall Owens of Atlanta, Ga.; Uncle Joseph F. Mazzone, III “Joey” (Steven) of Inman; Aunt Sandra J. Mazzone “Sandy”, Aunt Christy Scoggin of West Columbia; in-laws, Tracy and Jacob Johnson of Pelion; sister-in-law, Kinsey Leifer (Cody) of Pelion, and brother-in-law, Caleb Snyder of Leesville.

Nikki was preceded in death by her father, Kevin Owens, beloved grandfather, Joseph F. Mazzone, Jr., grandmother mother, Maria DeLoach, and step-grandfathers, Jerry DeLoach and Angus Scoggin.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. In Nikki’s honor, may we all strive to see the world with her kindness and unyielding spirit.