James "Gary" Owen age 55 of Mills River, North Carolina, entered his Heavenly home on Saturday, August 3, 2024.  Gary was born in Henderson County on July 22, 1969. He was the son of Dan and Linda Owen. Gary grew up on the gladiolus farm from which he received his love for nature, the outdoors, animals (especially horses), farming, and bartering.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Henry and Emma Owen of Balsam Grove, and Gordon and Kathleeen Bradley of Mills River.

Left to hold tight to his memories are his parents, Dan and Linda Owen; both of his sons  Christopher "C.J." John Owen (Wren) and James "Bradley" Owen (Casey); his grandchildren Bryson, Bentley, Piper, and Watson-Dean Owen; the love of his life Amanda Cantrell; sisters, Brenda (Rob) Chappelear and Patricia (Tony) Bentley; his nieces, Elizabeth Chappelear (Brendan), Leeanna Koch (Lane), Emma Lamm (Patrick), and nephew Daniel Bentley (Caroline); his great nephew and nieces, Jaxton, Aleah, Maise, and Isabella;  along with aunts, uncle, cousins, and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at Mills River Park on Sunday, August 25, 2024, from 12-2 PM. The family would like to request people attending to bring a covered dish.

Online condolences may be left at www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com.