Bessie Owens
Bessie Mae Owens (nee Anderson), affectionately known as Judy, embarked on her eternal journey from her earthly home in Henderson County, North Carolina. Born on March 30, 1942, in Laurens County, South Carolina, she graced this world with kindness and resilience that inspired all who knew her.
Judy’s life was a rich tapestry of experiences and passions. A graduate of high school in Henderson County in 1960 and a proud alumna of Fayetteville State College, her journey was fueled by an insatiable love of learning and service to others. She dedicated her professional life to caring for those in need as a Certified Nursing Assistant, touching countless lives with her gentle spirit and compassionate heart.
Her youthful days were filled with vibrant activities, from playing basketball and cheering for her school, to honing her skills in home economics.
With an enduring passion for creativity, she spent countless hours sewing and piecing together intricate jigsaw puzzles. Judy’s zest for life led her to a diverse array of roles, including factory work, retail, teaching, photography, and jewelry sales. She embraced each opportunity with enthusiasm and grace. An avid traveler, she found joy in exploring the world aboard cruise ships, but her true anchor was her unwavering faith. Judy devoted herself to the study of the Bible, sharing its wisdom and love with everyone around her, thus leaving a legacy of spiritual strength and devotion.
Though preceded in death by her beloved mother, Mattie Anderson Turner Ledbetter, Judy’s spirit thrives in the hearts of her devoted husband, Ray Owens; her cherished children, Constance Owens (Gilbert), Julie Freeman, Melanie Owens, and Rodney Owens (Michelle); as well as her dear grandchildren, Van, Jonathan, Laura, Connie Jr., Shantel, Judi, D’Nea, Tristen, Carltier, Brittany, and Tavon; and 18 great-grandchildren. She is also fondly remembered by an abundance of nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws.
A Celebration of Judy’s Life will be held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, June 28, 2025, in the Kirby Memorial Chapel of Shuler Funeral Home. Her family extends heartfelt gratitude to Martha Bell, Shirley Russell Davis, Kevin, Vicki, Buddy Chambers, and Four Seasons Hospice, along with all the devoted nurses and CNAs for their compassionate care and unwavering support. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Four Seasons Hospice, 511 S. Allen Rd., Flat Rock, NC 28731.
“Throughout my life, 83 years to be exact, there have been many joys, hopes, disappointments, and dreams,” Judy once said. Her enduring spirit and boundless love have left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Shuler Funeral Home has the honor of serving the family.