Robert Lee Owens Sr. was born October 12, 1941 in Fayetteville, North Carolina. He was the son of Dallas Lee Owens Sr. and Margaret Wells. Robert moved to Stamford, Connecticut in the late 1950’s. He is predeceased by his wife of 53 years Nola Owens. They were married on October 25, 1959 in Stamford Connecticut where they lived for 48 years prior to retiring to North Carolina in 2008. Robert moved to Arizona in the final months of his life to be with his family.
He left on this earth: 3 Children, 9 Grandchildren and 3 Great Grandchildren,
1 Uncle, 5 Brothers, 2 Sisters and many nieces, nephews and cousins
Robert L. Owens was also known as, “Bob, Rob, Mr. Owens, Br. Owens and Grand Dad'' had a strong work ethic and moral principles. He loved his family; and he always was a patriarchal figure and leader, whether towards his siblings as a young man or to other friends and family. Robert’s life was filled with amazing accomplishments for someone who didn’t finish secular school. From working as a sharecropper at the age five, to establishing and owning several businesses; Newfield Clean Dry Cleaners, Owens Maintenance Service and O’s Cleaning Service in Stamford, Ct. He always said, “As long as I have these two hands and my brain, I can do anything”. His diligence and determined work ethic were no way in comparison to the LOVE and devotion he showed toward his wife “Nola”. His love for Nola was the driving motivation behind all his accomplishments; together they built the lives of their dreams, with the foundation formed from their faith.
As a Christian he was a devout Jehovah’s Witness for almost 60 years. As one of Jehovah’s Witnesses he volunteered his time in many different capacities as a “Ministerial Servant, Elder, and a Pioneer. Besides being a husband to Nola he raised three children. He was an actively involved Grandfather always providing love, guidance, and inspiration.
Describing Robert Owens Sr. can be challenging because many of these statements can seem like a contradiction. He was forgiving and stubborn, humble, and proud, kind, and tough, generous, and frugal. He was a role model and encouragement to every person who met him. He was fearless, tenacious, and loyal. He took his time with everything he did, whether it was a five-minute hug to his grandchildren or a five-hour lecture and lesson. He was clever, funny, and inspiring. Despite his smaller stature, he had a giant presence and always was someone who was protecting those around him. Robert made many people realize that your dreams and aspirations were achievable. Although he is no longer physically present, his legacy and values he has instilled in his family will last for generations.
Written by his Children and Grandchildren
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