Barry Skipper Owen

1940 - 2025

Barry Skipper Owen, 84, of Memphis, TN, passed away peacefully after a brief battle with esophageal cancer, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband, father, Papaw, brother, and friend, Barry will be remembered for his unwavering generosity, his deep commitment to education, and his ability to make everyone feel like family.

Born on December 19, 1940, in Memphis, Barry grew up attending local schools and graduated from Humes High School. He continued his education at Memphis State University, earning both a bachelor's and a master's degree in education. Following his graduation, Barry served his country in the U.S. Navy aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise. As part of Operation Sea Orbit in 1964, he was part of the first nuclear-powered task force to circumnavigate the globe, an achievement that remains a proud moment in naval history.

After completing his naval service, Barry returned home to Memphis and dedicated his life to education. He began his career as a football and track coach, as well as a geography and history teacher at his alma mater, Humes High School. He later was an assistant principal at Kingsbury and Wooddale before transitioning into administration. Barry served as principal of Bellevue Middle School and then led Central High School for 15 years, leaving an indelible mark on students and faculty alike.

Following his retirement from Memphis City Schools, Barry continued his educational leadership in DeSoto County, where he served as an assistant principal and principal, culminating his career as the principal of Olive Branch High School. His philosophy of education centered on relationships, ensuring that every student felt safe, supported, and valued. Even after stepping down as principal, he remained dedicated to students as a Behavior Consultant for at-risk youth, ensuring that those most in need received the guidance and support they deserved.

On February 14, 1981, Barry married the love of his life, Glenda Lynn Sims. Together, they shared 44 beautiful years filled with love, laughter, travel, and the joy of raising their children and grandchildren. He was an active member of the St. Peter and St. Michael Catholic church communities, as well as various social and charitable organizations throughout Memphis. Barry never took for granted the opportunities he and Glenda were blessed to experience, always giving back to those around him.

Barry Owen was so much more than an educator-he was a husband, father, mentor, and friend. A man of boundless warmth and humor, he never met a stranger. Blake often joked that if you had ears, Barry would talk to you. Whether cheering on his children and grandchildren at games, cracking a dad joke, or asking where you went to high school, Barry had a way of making everyone feel special.

His legacy is one of kindness, dedication, and an unwavering belief in the power of relationships. Though he may no longer walk among us, his impact on the lives he touched will endure for generations to come.

Barry is survived by his loving wife, Glenda; his daughter, Christina Johnson (Brent); his son, Blake Owen (Christina); and his cherished grandchildren, Cooper and Kate Johnson and Cecelia and Francesca Owen. Also, brothers William Walker Owen (Angela), James A. Owen (Billie Ann), sisters Kay Marshall (Joe), and Marilyn Leigh Evans (Tom), and a host of nieces and nephews.

A memorial Mass celebrating Barry's life will be held on Monday, February 17th at St. Peter Catholic Church at 190 Adams, Memphis, Tennessee 33803 at 2:00 p.m. with visitation preceding the service at 1:00 p.m. at the parish hall. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Peter Catholic Church, Christian Brothers High School, or a charity of your choosing.