James “Speck” Owens, 86 of Columbus, N.C., passed away peacefully on Jan. 22, 2016 surrounded by his loving family.

A native of Polk County, he was son of the late Henry Broadus Owens and Elizabeth Hudson Owens, brother of the late Lindsey Owens, Bill Owens and Ethel Owens Crowe. Speck was the widower of the late Hazel Cochran Owens who died on Dec. 20, 2015 and predeceased by their precious daughter Cindy Owens.

He is survived by his son Steve Owens and two daughters Sherrie and Terri Owens (Rick Campbell). Speck also leaves behind a beloved grandson, Josh Owens (Amber Gabric), a loving granddaughter Chelsea Morris, one great granddaughter Reese Owens and one great grandson Carson Burnette.

He predeceases many of his loved ones and friends and leaves many behind to miss him. His sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family and friends not gone before will miss the strength and assurance of this dedicated Christian man.

Speck retired from the U.S. Army after 20 years of service. While in the 82^nd Airborne Division, he made over 500 jumps. His military career took him to Alaska, Korea, the Dominican Republic and Germany to name a few. A few years after military retirement, he became a Christian and graduated from Fruitland Baptist Bible Institute feeding his desire to know all about the Bible and what it said. He retired again nearly 20 years later from Mascot Homes in Inman, S.C.

Speck was a long time member of Pacolet Baptist Church.

His memorial service will be held at Pacolet on Jan. 30 at 3 p.m. with Reverend Chad Bowen officiating.

The family will receive friends in the fellowship hall immediately following the service.

Memorials may be made to Pacolet Baptist Church, 3424 Skyuka Rd., Tryon, NC 28782 or Hospice of the Foothills, 260 Fairwinds Rd., Landrum, SC 29356.

The family would like to express their most sincere love and gratitude to the staff at White Oak Manor for all the loving and compassionate care you gave to Speck and Hazel.

An online guest register is available at www.mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com.

McFarland Funeral Chapel
Tryon, N.C.