Mr. Kennis Owens

A Blessed Beginning.  Kennis Owens was born on September 17, 1943, in Piper, Alabama, to Mr. Eddie Owens and Mrs. Annie Owens. He and his siblings learned the values of faith, community education and hard work while growing up in Alden, Alabama, now known as Graysville, Alabama. Upon graduation from Praco High School, located in Praco, Alabama, in 1962, Kennis received a college football scholarship to attend Knoxville College in Knoxville, Tennessee. He was drafted into the US Army in 1964 where he was stationed in Vietnam, and he concluded his service with an honorable discharge in 1966. Upon his return home, he moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he lived and worked for several years, and subsequently his journey led him back to Birmingham. While residing in Alabama, he displayed love for helping people, which led him to open several adult group homes under contract with Bryce Psychiatric Hospital of Tuscaloosa. He also assisted with the founding and management of Tri-Shelters, Inc., which was forty bed independent living facility owned and operated by his mother, Mrs. Annie Owens. Although he is no longer with us physically, the legacy of his life will forever leave a monumental impact in our lives. Among those left to cherish Kennis Owens memory are his three sisters, Bobbie Breeding of Las Vegas, Rhonda Gillette of Henderson, NV and Debra Owens of Northville, MI; three brothers, Harold (Carolyn) Owens of Las Vegas, James (Yolanda) Owens of Birmingham and Corey Owens of Graysville, AL; and a host of cousins, nephews, grand nephews, nieces, grand nieces, other relatives and friends.  Kennis was preceded in death by his sister, Maxine Owens; brother, Alphonso Owens, both parents, Mr. Eddie and Mrs. Annie Owens and his wife, Gladys Harris Owens. Although he left the world at the age of 78 his life was a manifestation of service and benevolence while on this Earth. His absence from the world means he is present with the Lord. We will keep his memory and legacy alive through the stories we share about his love for people, life and spirit exemplified with a warm smile and impeccable style. Viewing Friday 1-6pm at Roberts Chapel. Funeral Saturday 12 noon at Roberts Chapel, Burial in Highland Memorial Cemetery with Military Honors.