Joe Owen, Jr.

Funeral Services for Joe Owen, Jr., 61, of West Monroe, LA will be held at 3:00PM Friday, May 9, 2025 at Christ Church, West Monroe with Pastor Tom Lowe and Mac Owen officiating. Interment will follow in Hasley Cemetery under the direction of Mulhearn Funeral Home, West Monroe. Visitation will be held from 2:00PM until service time on Friday at the church. 

Joe Owen, Jr. lovingly known as “Uncle Joe” by so many, passed away unexpectedly on May 6, 2025, while working in the backyard of his home in West Monroe, Louisiana. He was 61 years old. Though his passing was sudden, his life was a steady testimony of grace, service, and quiet strength.

Joe was born on May 20, 1963, in Tacoma, Washington, to Carla Owen and the late Joe Owen Sr. He grew up in a big, loving family with five siblings: Sammy, Dedious, Mac, David, and Becky. Among his rowdy brothers, Joe was the quiet one—the steady presence who often let his actions speak louder than words.

After graduating from West Monroe High School, Joe began his career at Brookshire’s Grocery Company, starting in the bakery. With humility and hard work, he rose to become Store Director of multiple stores. But Joe’s leadership wasn’t about titles—it was about people. He was known for offering second chances, mentoring young employees, and creating an atmosphere of kindness and trust. He had a way of believing in people when they needed it most.

On March 14, 1992, Joe married the love of his life, Shari Bennett, in Houston, Texas. They built a beautiful life together and raised two amazing children, Lauren Ashley Owen and MacAaron Allen Owen. Joe treasured his family above all else. He was a devoted husband, a proud and tender father, and a loyal friend. He prioritized his people—showing up with a meal, a helping hand, or just a quiet presence that said, “I’m here.”

Joe’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. He was a faithful member of Christ Church in West Monroe and served selflessly through the years—especially in the kitchen and during men’s retreats. He fried fish for the old-timers of the sheriff’s department, packed food boxes for Thanksgiving ministries, and volunteered with Brookshire’s community outreach events. He didn’t need a spotlight—he just showed up, served well, and loved deeply.

Joe enjoyed the simple, meaningful things: – Listening to worship music and finding new favorite songs – Traveling with his family – Cooking and baking with joy – Landscaping and working in the yard – Time with his beloved dog, Moe

But what we’ll remember most are the memories he created—memories full of laughter, good food, and love. He gave second chances, made space for others, and had a calming presence that made people feel safe. You could sit in silence with Joe and somehow feel stronger just for being near him.

On the morning of his passing, Joe shared 2 Peter 3:18: “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever! Amen.” It was his final post—and the perfect summary of how he lived. He grew in grace. He pointed people to Jesus. He gave God the glory.

Joe is preceded in death by his father, Joe Owen Sr.,

He is survived by his wife, Shari; children, Lauren and MacAaron; mother, Carla; his siblings and their spouses, Sammy (Sandra), Dedious (Jerry), Mac (Mary), David (Janice), and Becky (Jeff); and a host of extended family, friends, and coworkers who loved him deeply.

Pallbearers will be John David Owen, Tommy Bennett, TJ Bennett, Drew Tyner, Heath Arthur, Tim Hurt, Chris Baker, and Parnell Priesler

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to be made in Joe’s memory to Christ Church or a ministry close to your heart.