Ernest Owens

Ernest Owens, age 101, of Hamilton, Ohio, passed away Thursday, October 8, 2026. He was born in Hima, Kentucky on January 21, 1925, to the union of John Owens and Hettie Jones. After serving proudly during World War II, and receiving the Purple Heart and the Silver Star, Ernest was honorably discharged from the United States Army in 1945. Later in life, he secured employment within the City of Hamilton, public works department. Ernest was a kind individual who was always willing to lend a helping hand to others in need. He was described as a “jack of all trades” but really excelled in carpentry. In his free time, Ernest enjoyed fishing, boating and being surrounded by family on his property in Lake Cumberland.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Eunice, one brother, four sisters, and son-in-law, Chris James.

Ernest leaves to cherish his memory, daughters, Lois Faye Harkins (Bob) and Helen James; brothers, Burlie and Russell Owens; grandchildren, Debra Hensel (Steve), Robert Harkins (Mary), Kristina Arthur (Micah), and Jason James (Tonya); five great- grandchildren, seven great-great grandchildren, and a host of family and friends who will miss him dearly.

Services will be held at Rose Hill Funeral Home, 2565 Princeton Rd., Hamilton, OH 45011, on Friday, October16, 2026. Visitation will begin at 11:00am, followed by the funeral service, beginning at 12:00pm. Pastor Dan Knisley, officiating.

In lieu of flowers, charitable donations in Ernest’s name may be made to either the benevolent fund or the youth program at The Well Bible Church, 1190 Stahlheber Rd. Hamilton, OH 45013 or Oxford Women’s Care Center, 127 W. Church St., Oxford, OH 45056.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.rosehill funerals.com for the Owens family.