Robert James Owens

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Robert “Rusty” James Owens on January 5th, 2025 while at home in Richmond, Va. Rusty was 58 years old, and was preceded in death by his wife, Amy Kathleen Owens; his mother, Ellen Owens; and his father, Robert Jackson Owens. Left to honor Rusty and remember his love, friendship and guidance is his son, Cole Agner. He is also survived by both of his sisters, Linda Ogle and Chrissy Owens.

Growing up, Rusty was a sports lover and never shied away from any sport or game he was challenged to play. He graduated from Midlothian High School in 1985, where he was a standout on the basketball and baseball teams. Rusty then went on to continue his passion for basketball, starting as a point guard at JSRCC, playing in state colleges, then transferring to the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, graduating in 1999 with a Bachelor of Science. Shortly thereafter, he pursued his Master’s degree in Social Work at Virginia Commonwealth University, where he graduated in 2002. Rusty went on to apply his specialty in social work, working with troubled teenagers and young adults, afterwards becoming a civil servant at McGuire Veterans Hospital, helping veterans and their families recover from trauma.

Rusty was a warm father, husband, and friend who was generous with his time, conversation, laughter, and affection for those he was close with. He enjoyed swimming in the lake, boating, attending concerts, and meeting new people. He loved skiing with his wife and son every winter, making trips throughout North America. He was fearless in his endeavors and tamed the most dangerous of slopes on any given mountain somehow, making it seem effortless with a big smile and a “yeah boy!” at the bottom.

Rusty and his beloved wife, Amy, enjoyed boating & entertaining close friends at their house in New Kent, while Rusty was often known to be a storyteller. He was also avidly involved in their son’s interest, raising him to hold strong character and have a deep appreciation of their family. Outside of being a loving husband, this was another place where Rusty tended to shine. Whether it was baseball, snowboarding, or even video games, Rusty was all in for any activity that his son took even the slightest interest in. Being a Dad was something that came naturally to Rusty, and he realized his dream of being a father by being involved in every aspect of his son’s life, making it fun and memorable while giving his unconditional love to his family.

For the time that he shared his life with us on this planet, Rusty lived many happy, adventurous, rich, and fulfilling days with his many close friends and family. He will be remembered, he will be loved, and may he rest in peace with his wife, Amy.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 18th, at 3 PM at Nelsen Funeral Home, 4650 S. Laburnum Avenue, Richmond, Virginia, 23231.

A celebration of Rusty’s life will be held afterwards at Jolene Family Winery, located at 2750 Pocahontas Trail, Quinton, VA 23141.

All who knew and loved him are welcome to attend.