Willard Owenby

Willard Owenby, age 94, of Marion, North Carolina, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 21, 2016 at Mission Hospital-St. Joseph Campus in Asheville.  Born in Macon County, North Carolina on May 15, 1922, he was the son of the late James “Dad” Owenby and Nola Shields Owenby. 

Although he had no children, Willard was a father figure to many; and through the years he enjoyed taking his family and friends fishing.  Before his health began to decline, he attended Liberty Free Will Baptist Church. 

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by three brothers, Carl, Harold and Goldie Owenby; and two sisters, Myrtle DeHart and Merle Lowery.

He is survived by one sister, Ruby Davenport; and a number of nieces and nephews.  Also left behind to cherish Willard’s memory, his companion of 19 years, and the love of his life, Hazel Banks and her family.

A funeral service to honor the life of Mr. Owenby will be held on Monday, May 23, 2016 at 3:00 p.m. at Yancey Street Baptist Church with Revs. Dean Owenby and Harold Webb officiating.  Interment will follow at Liberty Free Will Baptist Church Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., prior to the service, at Yancey Street Baptist Church. 

Those wishing to make a memorial donation in Mr. Willard’s memory are asked to consider, Liberty Free Will Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, 4089 US Hwy 70 West, Marion, North Carolina 28752.