January 21, 1956 – April 2, 2026
Julia “Julie” Darlene O’Neal Owens, age 70, passed away peacefully at 5:20 a.m. on April 2, 2026. Julie was born on January 21, 1956, in Sylacauga, Alabama, and was raised in Weogufka, Alabama. She later made her home in Gardendale, Alabama.
Julie was preceded in death by her mama, Evelene McGrady O’Neal Taylor; her daddy, William Jackson “Jack” O’Neal; her biological father, T.J. Todd; and her brother, Davy O’Neal.
She is survived by her devoted husband and the love of her life, Richard Marvin Owens. Julie and Richard met at Weogufka High School and married young, beginning a lifelong love story that would span nearly 54 years. Together, they built a beautiful life grounded in their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, which they credited for sustaining and blessing their journey.
Julie loved and was so very proud of her children: Brandie (Joel) Wells, Misti (David) Wells, Stephen (Amanda) Owens, and Charity Owens. She was also a cherished sister to Tammy Felix, Dawn Todd, and Michelle Tucker and a sister-in-love to Bobbi O’Neal and John Felix.
Her greatest joy was encouraging others and being Grandma and MawMaw to her nine grandchildren: Joshua (Haley) Gumm, Micah (Carolina) Bartlett, Heather Gumm, Makenzi Bartlett, Roman Harris, Jackson Owens, Hamilton Owens, Adeline Owens, and Evelyn Owens. She was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Aubrey Gumm and Henry Bartlett, and many nieces and nephews.
Julie will be remembered for her deep love for the Lord, her family and friends, Lake Martin and The Yellow Top Ice Cream Shop.
BECAUSE HE LIVES, a very special graveside “Home Going” service, officiated by Marc Culver, will take place at The Unity Presbyterian Church Cemetery on Saturday, April 4th at 10am. Family and friends are welcome and encouraged to dress comfortable and bring a chair to enjoy her favorite hymns. Family and friends who play musical instruments are encouraged to bring them. There has never been a family gathering without music, so this is the perfect way to honor her during this beautiful Easter Week.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to 𝗬𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗧𝗼𝗽 𝗜𝗰𝗲 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 and designated for "Free Ice Cream for Children's Camps at Lake Martin"
