Kory James Owens

Kory James Owens, 38, of Houston, Texas, passed away on February 10, 2026. He was born on February 13, 1987, in Channelview, Texas.

Kory had a natural light about him, and was the friendliest person. With his Auburn hair and inviting smile, he attracted people wherever he was. He enjoyed singing and dancing.

He dearly loved his family, who celebrated everything with food, fun and emense love. His love of cooking came from these roots.

He was kind and caring, always ready to lend a helping hand. He made countless friends throughout his life, offering love and support, as well as being thankful for them being there for him.

He enjoyed being active and outdoors - visiting the beach, as well as being in the country.

He was athletic, playing community basketball and baseball until he reached High school.

He attended Sheldon ISD from K-12 and was a top student throughout. He marched with the C. E. King Marching Band, was a Color Guard member, who then, later became Captain. He also was a cheerleader, capable of back flipping for most of the length of the football field, and exhibited his strength by lifting and supporting the flyers of the team. He graduated in 2005 with honors, and a couple of earned credits of college.

He was manager at US VETS, assisting homeless veterans downtown. He also worked at Veterans Evaluation Services as a QA, and then a management position. He was able to begin his dreams of travel, traveling to exciting cities for work and personal pleasure. The last few years of his life, he was self employed.

Kory had a 'Green Thumb'. His love of plants was apparent, as he spent time growing things everywhere. He was happy to share his plants, and was always getting new ones to add to his collection. He was proud to share his success, and make sales with what he grew.

Kory was the proud father to a whole family of fur babies - Theo, Leona, Charlie and Chanel. He loved them dearly. For many years, he maintained several aquariums, both fresh and saltwater. Even rescuing baby birds and hand raising them, to release back to the wild.

Love was so natural for him.

He is survived by his loving parents, Darrell and Tina Owens; his brother, Kyle Owens; his cherished niece, Presley; and his grandparents, Garnet Sheffield, and Everett and Susan Strahan.

He also leaves behind many other family members and friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.

Preceded in death by his grandparents, Norris and Eva Owens; A.H. 'Sandy' Sheffield; and uncle, Glenn Strahan.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., with a memorial service beginning at 11:00 a.m. A Celebration of Life will follow from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Sterling-White Funeral Home, 11011 Crosby-Lynchburg Road, Highlands, Texas