Phyllis Ray Owen

Phyllis was born in Shamrock, Texas, to Elmer and Dessa Copeland. She was one of nine children. Her father was a migrant worker, so the family moved to many states to work until they settled in Bakersfield when Phyllis was 11 years old. She attended Panama Elementary and graduated from Bakersfield High in 1956. Phyllis worked in management for Hartfields and Anita Dress Shops for several years which required she travel and live in several different places. In 1968, she became a full-time housewife. Through her husband's work, she had the opportunity to meet three presidents, numerous entertainers, attend major entertainment events, and meet a lot of wonderful people. She deeply loved her large family and enjoyed being with them whenever possible. Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Dessa Copeland, and two sisters, Wanda Ivie and husband Chuck, Buena Worley; Brother-in-law, James Geary. She is survived by her husband Charles "Fuzzy" Owen; Children, Cindy Blackhawk and husband Clint, Robin Owen; Grandchildren; Cristen and Chad Schaeffer, Carly Ploeger and husband Casey, and John Blackhawk; Great-Grandson, Cylus Schaeffer; Sisters, Mary Cook an husband Bill, Glenda Geary, Sherrell Gamboa and husband Alvin, and Ramona Copeland; Brothers, E.J. Copeland and wife Claudette, James Copeland; Brother-in-law, Doug Worley, along with many nieces, nephews, and constant companion Bella. We want to thank CBCC, Bakersfield Heart Hospital, and Hoffmann Hospice for their care and kindness, along with all of her dear friends and family, and especially to Sherrell, Al, and Ramona for their help through it all. She fought hard, never complained, and never game up hope. Services will be held at Hillcrest Memorial Park on Thursday, October 18th, at 10:00 A.M. www.bakersfield.com/obits