James Leland Owen

1939 - 2026

PONTOTOC - James Leland Owen, 86, passed away on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at New Albany Health and Rehab. A proud veteran of the Army and National Guard, he was also a devoted member of the American Legion. James shared 54 wonderful years with the love of his life, Brenda Owen. While a longtime member of Black Zion Pentecostal Church, he had recently been attending Thaxton Baptist Church with his family. He spent much of his life working in the furniture industry at Washington and American Furniture. Known for his kind heart, warm smile, and hearty laugh, James was an avid reader and a regular at the Pontotoc Library.

James is lovingly remembered by his children, James Allen Owen (Sharon) and Kim Owen Cooper (Jeff); his grandchildren, Bro. Matthew Cooper (Mary), Morgan Cooper Baird (Joey), Makenna Cooper, Rachel Owen, and Timothy Owen; his great-grandchildren, Alex, Avery, Ben, and Sammy Baird; his mother-in-law, Pauline Wright; his sister, Emma Dillard; and many in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Brenda Wright Owen; his parents, Leland and Irene Owen; and his brother, Judson Owen.

A funeral service will be held Monday, February 16, 2026, at 2 PM at Thaxton Baptist Church, officiated by Bro. Gary Wright and Bro. Matthew Cooper, with visitation starting at 12 PM until the service. Burial will follow at Judah Cemetery.

Honorary pallbearers include Timothy Owen, Joey Baird, Bro. Matthew Cooper, and Alex, Ben, and Sammy Baird.