Rev. Wallace Vernie Owens of Tuckasegee passed away on Saturday, January 7, 2023, just a few days short of his 90th birthday.

He was the son of Rev. Marcus Blye Owens and Altoona Owens. Rev. Owens was preceded in death by his parents, a sister and brother, as well as his wife, Annie Bell Owens, his daughter, Vonda Lee Owens, son Darrell Vernie Owens, son-in-law, Rev. Newal Hoxit, son-in-law, Rev. Ricky Robinson, granddaughter, Melissa Quinn, great-granddaughter, Sabrina Owen, great-grandsons, Ebenezer McCall, and Elisha McCall.

He married his wife, Annie Bell Owens, on July 24, 1951. They were married for 61 years and raised 12 children. Rev. Owens was ordained as a minister of the Gospel on November 2, 1958, at Charlies Creek Baptist Church where he and his wife remained faithful members until both of their deaths.

Survivors include his children, Patricia Owen (Rev. Devon), Diane Owen (Phillip "Briss"), Anna Lou Hoxit Robinson, Virginia Queen (Frank), Nina McCall (Carl "Bab"), Connie McCall (Rev. Michael), Rev. Marcus Owens (Julie), Delane "Tency" McCall (Rodney), Monty Owens (Ginger), and Janie Cauble (Jamie); daughter-in-law, Susie Owens; son-in-law, Rev. David "Snooky" Owen; 41 grandchildren, 84 great grandchildren, 12 great-great grandchildren.

Rev, Owens was a very active outdoors man, right up until his death. He taught his family and many others how to hunt and fish, as well as all about the different trees and flowers that were native to North Carolina.

He loved and cared for all of his neighbors and their children, and he was well known for his storytelling and his ability to tell people their ancestry.

The thing he and our mom treasured the most was their life for Christ. Anywhere you saw him, he would be sharing the Gospel with whoever was nearby. He was still preaching when he was in his eighties. He left this earth praising the God who saved him so many years ago.

Daddy, you will be forever missed, but we will see you soon, when it is our time to leave this world. We love you very much Daddy!

The funeral service will be held at 2 PM Wednesday, January 11, 2023, at Charlies Creek Baptist Church. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Online condolences may be left at www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com