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George Owens Obituary
GEORGE W. OWENS
George W. Owens passed away peacefully on Friday, April 8, 2022, surrounded in love by his daughter, son and wife of 62 years. He was born on May 13, 1939 to George and Stella Owens in Pittsburgh, PA. He proudly served 35 years at the Central Intelligence Agency, including a tour at the US Embassy in Bonn, Germany, and culminating his career as the Director of Personnel. He was awarded the Distinguished Intelligence Medal for outstanding service. He is predeceased by his brother, Muriel (Joanne), and sister, Jean (Perry). He is survived by his wife Tess, daughter Valerie, son Gregory (Angie), his beloved grandchildren Emma and Dexter, and a host of nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life will be held on May 9, 2022, at 2 p.m. at the Sunrise United Methodist Church, 5420 Sunset Lake Road, Holly Springs, NC 27540. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in his name to Samaritan's Purse at www.Samaritanspurse.org/donate
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Memories and Condolences
for George Owens
Terri Littlejohn
April 12, 2025
John and I miss George so very much but cherish all our memories of time with him. Such a good man.
Daniel C. King
April 11, 2025
My memory of George remains steadfast--he was a true gentleman.
John Michael Ray
September 12, 2024
I know it has been some time since George went to heaven, but I was reminded of him as I slept last night. I worked with George for several months; we became close friends during that time. Bottom line is that he was, indeed, a true gentleman, loyal, supportive, and a blessing. I pray that the peace and comfort of the Lord Jesus continue to be with his wife and family. I was blessed to have known him.
Dan King
April 11, 2024
The one word I always think of when I remember George is that he was a true "gentleman." I always enjoyed working with him. He is remembered.
Dan King
April 11, 2023
George was a colleague and friend and often gave me good advice--some of which I took and some of which I did not, but should have. He is remembered. Dan King
Emmy Reed Hartle
December 17, 2022
Dear Tess, Val and Greg, I remember so well George's ready smile. It's rare to find someone so genuinely happy all the time. Although it's been decades since those days in Avalon, PA, when you were in town to visit. I truly enjoyed when you were there and I found George to be delightful and always smiling. May God bless and comfort all of us.
Roger Andrews
August 7, 2022
I worked for George during his time in Bonn, Germany and benefitted from his influence throughout the rest of my career. He was someone that I looked up to and who kindly took the time to provide advice, both personal and professional. He exemplified the American dream coming out of humble beginnings in Pittsburgh and excelling to the senior executive level in one of the most competitive agencies in government. Even then, he never forgot his roots and treated everyone with kindness and respect. Tess, I'm so very sorry for your and your family's loss. May you find comfort in the many fond memories that you have of him.
Mary Pfannenstein
May 8, 2022
I have the best memories from our times in Washington and in Bonn together. We worked hard and we played hard. George and Tess even hosted a lovely dinner when my parents visited Bonn!! My parents talked about that for years...and I still do! They were so impressed and happy!!
I learned so much from George over the years and am grateful for everything. My sincere sympathy to Tess, Valerie, Greg, and families. I believe God has a special place for George. Hugs, prayers and love to all.
Barbara Cooper
May 5, 2022
I remember George's big smile and dedication to OP. He was a hard worker, supportive colleague and mentor to many. Tess, blessings and strength to you and your family.
Roger Campbell
May 4, 2022
George was an exceptional leader -I was fortunate to serve with him at the Agency and remember dearly at trip we took together into Central American in the 90's. Lots of great stories and memories - a true friend and someone who taught me much about leadership. God Bless George and much love and comfort to Tess and the family.
Pete Bellaria
May 4, 2022
Dear Tess and family.
George was a great guy and I remember fondly the times we worked together. May he rest in peace.
Bobby Sue Silvey
April 22, 2022
Tess and family, I'm so sorry to hear of George's passing. I still remember the two of you so fondly from our days in Ford's Colony. May your memories take you through this difficult time.
Susan Spellman
April 20, 2022
George will always be remembered as a friend, neighbor and real estate client whose smile brightened every day. My prayers are with you Tess and your family.
Vicki Gibson
April 19, 2022
Condolences to Tess and family. I worked with George in HR for many years. He really was one of the good guys.
Joe and Doris Sexton
April 19, 2022
Tess, please accept our sincere condolences. We have very fond memories of George as a boss, but more importantly as a friend. You and he truly care about friends and family always offering a kind word, fellowship and charity. I never met a man more kind and honest as George. He will be missed, but never forgotten with fond and gentle memories to sustain us.
Diane & Gene Lassitter
April 19, 2022
Dear Tess, We are so very sorry for your loss, yet we know that you and the family have a host of special memories that will sustain you through the coming years. George was such a wonderful man! Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow.
Love, Diane & Gene Lassitter
Shirley Sarraga
April 19, 2022
George was an outstanding leader and one of my favorites from my HR career. He greeted everyone by name and always offered words of encouragement. The Agency lost one of the best. Condolences for his family.
Daniel C. King
April 19, 2022
George was a true gentleman, always supportive of others, and a pleasure to work with.
Patsy McCollough
April 18, 2022
Dear Tess and family, I first met George when I transferred into his office. From the first day, he was more than just a boss but a mentor and then a friend. Our paths crossed many times over the next 20 years and he always encouragement me as well as all his colleagues. I was so happy to see you both a few years back at a CIRA conference. George was an amazing leader in our organization and he could never be replaced. He will be remembered always. May God comfort and keep you.
Joe Wippl
April 18, 2022
I remember George well from my (youthful) days in Bonn. He was capable and very helpful to me. For this former officer, it's great to have a competent personnel officer.
G
April 18, 2022
So sorry to hear about your loss. You know that God and Jesus are in the best position to comfort us when we lose a loved one in death.
Deborah Christie
April 18, 2022
Please accept my heartfelt condolences to George's family. In my 30 years as an HR officer, serving under George was one of my greatest pleasures. He was firm, always fair and more than anything approachable by anyone - no matter what our grade was or his grade. He will always hold a special memory in my heart for those years we served together.
Valerie Owens
April 17, 2022
Daddy I will never stop making you proud! Fly with the angels
Marge Galey
April 17, 2022
Dear Tess,
My sincere condolences on George´s passing. I have many fond memories of the both of you. Take care.
Frank Titus
April 17, 2022
RIP George.
Terri and John Littlejohn
April 14, 2022
Tess and family-John and I send our sincerest condolences and deepest sympathy to all of you. George will remain forever in our memories and in our hearts; he was such a good man who will be truly missed. Attached is a favorite photo we have from Tess and George´s 50th wedding anniversary celebration. Love, T and J
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