He was born April 28, 1950 in Chattanooga to the late Junior “Pap” & Betty Early. His sister, Barbara Weathers also preceded him in death.
Owen was a retired Sergeant from the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department after 20 years of service. He owned and operated Early Excavating for many years and did small engine repair as well.
Every Friday and Saturday evening in the month of October for the last 28 years, he could be found along with his wife, Connie, managing and operating their entertainment business and popular attraction “The Haunted Barn” located at their family farm. This successful business brought many new friends into Owen’s life through staff and visitors longing for a night of frightful fun.
Owen was an extremely hard worker and could never sit still. He was just so full of life. He loved to cut-up and cut grass, poke fun and embarrass you any chance he could. The joy he brought to our lives will never be forgotten, and he will be deeply missed.
He was a member of New Haven Baptist Church.
Survivors include his loving wife of 30 years, Connie Holland Early; son, Mike (Brandy) Early of McDonald; step-daughters, Christy (Grant) Burnside of Chattanooga and Misty (Josh) Beasley of Ringgold; son-in-law, James Penny of Chickamauga; brother, Ray (Joy) Early of McDonald; sister, Geraldine Thomas of McDonald; grandchildren, Zack Early, Lauren Penny, Christian Penny, Jillyan Penny, Logan Beasley & Georgia Beasley; great-grandchildren, Charleigh Early and Chandler Early; special niece Cheryl Knox; and numerous other nieces and nephews, cousins and extended family.
The family will receive friends Thursday, October 6, 2022 from 4-8 p.m. at the funeral home.
Funeral services will be held Friday, October 7, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. in the Valley View Chapel with Rev. Robert K. Schrader officiating. Burial will follow at New McDonald Cemetery with Wes Harden, Steve Harden, Tim Hickman, Berri McCulley, Tommy Baker, and James Penney serving as active pallbearers.
Arrangements are by the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 7414 Old Lee Hwy., Chattanooga, TN 37421.
Please share your thoughts, memories and any photos at www.ChattanoogaValleyViewChapel.com.
