Junior Leon "Leon" Owens

Leon Owens, 84, of Salinas, passed away peacefully at home on November 13, 2025, surrounded by family.

Leon was born on March 18, 1941, in Boatman, Oklahoma. His family later moved to Arvin, California, and eventually settled in Salinas when he was twelve, where he spent the rest of his life.

In 1960, Leon married Ursula, the love of his life. Together they shared more than six decades of marriage, building a strong and loving home filled with family traditions and warm memories.

Leon worked for Tynan & Rogers and Tynan Lumber for 31 years. Known for his dependability and skill, he was a steady presence both at work and at home. He enjoyed refinishing furniture, tinkering in his garage, fishing, camping, classic country music, and cheering on the San Francisco Giants and the Oakland Raiders. Many cherished moments were spent having breakfast at the Waffle Shop in Salinas.

Leon is survived by his wife, Ursula; his children Jody (husband Dan) and James (wife Sheri), his grandsons Matthew and Christopher, his brothers Wayne and John, and countless cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Jimmy Owens, his mother Mary Riddle, his stepfather Earl Riddle, and his sisters Shirley, Helen, and Jane.

Leon will be remembered for his quiet strength, his dedication to family, and the steady, loving life he created over the years.