Marsha Owen
September 12, 1954 - July 7, 2023
Raleigh, North Carolina - Marsha died unexpectedly on July 7, 2023.
Marsha was a skilled professional potter with the expertise to create almost anything that could be made with clay. She loved her work. She leaves behind her husband, Rick Moss, and many many friends and fellow potters.
A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The News & Observer on Jul. 13, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Marsha Owen

Sponsored by Cremation Society of the Carolinas/Capital Funeral Home - Raleigh.

50 Entries

Harris

September 6, 2025

I am still filled with sadness.
Marsha and I shared studio space.
We had some things in common-
like family makeup.

martha misenheimer

July 6, 2025

I miss Marsha so much-her energy, her spirit, her generosity, her expansive knowledge- but most of all her irreplaceable friendship. Almost every day I see something that instinctively makes me want to relay to my friend, recipe, article, movie, book. I miss the sharing and the fun we enjoyed and am so grateful to have had her in my life.

Becky

July 5, 2025

Just Unbelievable that Marsha Went so Young Withal the Energy She Had To Offer . II Am Not a Potter But I Always was Enthused When I would Talk and Look & I Listened and Learned. Thank you Marsha for Sharing that for and to me ! ,Becky

Sandra

June 17, 2025

I am just now finding out about the passing of Martha. I too worked with she and Rick at The Irregardless. Such a good potter. Sandra Blanks Simpson

Joy Cline Haas

Planted Trees

Allyn Stewart

January 21, 2024

I was so sorry to read about Marsha. We worked together at the Irregardless in the 70´s.
Such a baker! My deepest condolences to Rick.

Allyn Stewart

Victor Rafael Golden Jr

November 30, 2023

In life one never knows when one fulfills their mission; I visited Penland for the first time this past year and was totally impressed by the dedication and commitment. Some how after reading about Marsha and her untimely death I was able to connect with her life force. My deepest condolences to her family and friends

meg flaherty

October 31, 2023

marsha shared her energy, love and skill with me in ways that i am forever and utterly grateful for. her studio was my haven for the last few years, she was magical. i love marsha deeply.

John L Owen

September 24, 2023

We figured coincidence on name. My family from Bladen, NC with relatives in Fl.

Lydia Owen Boesch

September 23, 2023

Thank you to all of you who have shared memories. John Owen, are we related? Marsha was very special to me. Your stories take me back to a long time ago, and show me how special she has been to all of you, for a very long time. This is a loss I may never leave behind. That´s okay. She still lives in my heart.

John L Owen

September 22, 2023

Irregardless staff, circa Fall 1981
Marsha left of center

John L Owen

September 20, 2023

Many a hot morning, Rick, Marsha, and I worked behind the scenes on Sunday brunches not to be topped with Heineken and Guiness on ice for closing time. I can't say if Japanese fruit pie or French Silk were my favorite desserts. Those were the classic years for the Irregardless. And my late mother co-owned Etc Crafts when Marsha got started in pottery. And we used to occasionally have lunch years afterwards. Peace, Love, and Condolences to Rick. John Leslie Owen

George Bitar

August 6, 2023

Marsha, talented, fit, well informed. She was so good. We were friends and shared quite a few fun times. She trained me as a fill in baker, during the time I was bartending at Irregardless. I thought about her while baking one day last week, just a few hours before I heard the news. You will be very, very, missed.

Lee Harrison Robbins

July 24, 2023

My heart goes out to all of Marsha's family, especially David, Lydia and Mary Jane. I remember Marsha as being very kind, a great friend to our family and my sister, Lisa's, very best friend. She was uber talented and taught me how to make daisy-chain beaded jewlery. Her pottery was beautiful. The doors to the Harrison and Owen houses were never locked. It was not unusual to come home and find Marsha there or have her stop by and check the oven to see what was for dinner. Much love to all of her family and friends. She will be dearly missed.

Pat Silva

July 23, 2023

I drink coffee from Marsha's mug every day. It is a black mug, with the planet Saturn and some stars, and I treasure it. Her work was beautiful, and I am sorry that she has passed.

martha misenheimer

July 21, 2023

Marsha and Rick were both wonderfully creative and friendly kitchen staffers at Irregardless when I met them there in 1977. It was a magical time when we were part of a social group that included many coworkers and characters from central Raleigh, definitely the good old days! Fast forward 46 years, and still friends! Marsha was the most generous person I have known, with her knowledge and time, gifts, wonderful dinners and baked goods-or just an invitation to stop by for martini time, the ritual that she and Rick had at the end of each work day. She had a way of really connecting with people, and making them feel special, and enlightened by any conversation with her!
I am very lucky for Rick and Marsha´s friendship, and wish peace for Rick.

Peter Wilson

July 19, 2023

Marsha was my wife Lynn's pottery guru - inspiration, mentor, and advisor on making pottery herself and on being helpful and supportive of other potters. We live in Durham so we didn't see as much of Marsha and Rick as we would have liked but I remember when Marsha knocked on our door it was always a happy time. Lynn and Marsha would talk pottery and as I do much of the cooking in our house, Marsha and I would talk cooking and food in the kitchen. She was as knowledgeable and helpful on food and she was on clay. Dinner in Raleigh with Marsha and Rick was always memorable - the food, the setting, the conversation. She was awfully good at whatever she did, from pottery to food, to being a mentor and a friend. One of those people you are blessed to know, who knowing makes you a better person, and who you will remember and miss always.

Jim Adans

July 18, 2023

We have such wonderful memories of being with Marsha and Rick, enjoying great meals and lively conversation. Marsha will be sorely missed by all who loved her..... and her beautiful work. We send our healing thoughts and support to Rick in this time of grief.
Jim Adams
Dennis Hill

Brian Hooley

July 18, 2023

Like so many here I first met Marsha ( and Rick ) at Irregardless in the 70's. Those wonderful dinners she would invite me to and the good times shared with them both at their home will never be forgotten.

lynn wilson

July 18, 2023

Marsha was my teacher, my mentor and mostly my friend. We shared recipes, meals, and books and she was passionate about it all. And so talented. I always admired how Marsha stretched herself - as a potter and as a teacher. She certainly stretched me. She had the rare ability to be a supportive teacher while always expecting more. I hear Marsha´s voice and guidance when I pot. I will miss her. I ache for you Rick.

Eulalie Hazard Davis

July 16, 2023

Marsha and I were good friends at Demonstration School. I always loved it when she came home from school with me...especially when she was selling Girl Scout cookies. She was always fun to be around. I am grateful that I have a few pieces of her pottery.

Shelley Crisp

July 16, 2023

Marsha has been my neighbor on Duplin Road for a decade. I loved having her "Pottery Sale" signs in the front corner of my yard, and even better, I was fortunate in having to walk only a few steps to see the marvelous works of art she created. I have pitchers and bowls and vases that she made, that make my house a home. I will miss seeing her walking with (and sometimes without) Rick, her warm hellos, and friendly chats about the neighborhood. May she know peace eternal.

alison gracey

July 16, 2023

Marsha was a fantastic human being: Kind, generous, TALENTED, fun, curious, amazing teacher/friend/mentor. I will cherish her friendship and miss her terribly. My heart breaks for everyone who knew and loved her.

LISA HARRISON ANTHONY

July 15, 2023

That is such a funny picture that ya'll have, Lydia, of Marsha cutting of her right pig tail. Ya'll have so many wonderful family pictures of all the siblings Lydia, Frank, Marsha, David , MJ
and Judith. Peace and love to all of you from the Harrisons: Lawton, S, Lisa, Gina and Lee. We were very close families and hope to remain so.

Lydia Owen Boesch

July 15, 2023

Marsha and I laughed about this picture a LOT! The pigtail on the right side of her head is lower than the other because she lopped it off! I never noticed it until she pointed it out. We were in hysterics.

Marshall Wyatt

July 15, 2023

In 2016, Marsha and I went to Ayden, NC on a barbecue expedition. GQ Magazine had declared The Skylight Inn "Best BBQ in America." Well, Marsha begged to differ! Never one to hold back her opinion, she gave this place a decided thumbs-down!! Marsha served me a delicious bbq dinner at her own home countless times. Of course Rick had vegetarian fare! Then we'd watch a movie, most recently "Asphalt Jungle," a favorite. I can't describe how much fun these Dinner & a Movie evenings have been through the years, and how they lifted my spirits. When I caught Covid in December 2020, Marsha was the first friend to bring food to my front porch! Then she told me she'd call me at noon every day while I was sick, to make sure I was OK. And that she did. Thank you, Marsha! I love you and I miss you! Rick, my thoughts and my heart are with you.
Marshall

Ronni

Planted Trees

Lydia Owen Boesch

July 15, 2023

Marsha was my precious little sister. Because I live in Pinehurst, I was able to go up to Raleigh a lot for our usual walks around her neighborhood, shopping, and lunch at her favorite Japanese restaurant. (We always took leftovers home for Rick.)

I always loved it when she came to Pinehurst for "spa day" for her birthday. We'd pull out the old family photos and laugh until we cried. We also laughed about reading recipes to each other, just like our mom's elderly first cousins did. We said we'd be doing that into our 90s, just like them.

She was my go-to for cooking tips; many of the recipes she gave me are among my favorites, especially chocolate carrot cake. Her pottery is all over my house. She inspired me to knit again.

There is so much I miss about her, but especially laughing with her. A huge hole is in my heart that I hope never is filled.

Sommer and Paul Sobin

July 15, 2023

Our love and sincere condolences to the whole family. We last shared an afternoon with Marsha making a sacred drawn yantra and sharing in yoga practice together. She was so radiant, happy and full of lightness in her being that it was truly inspiring to be with her. May she be free and filled with peace. May you all be held in tenderness.
With love,
Sommer and Paul Sobin

Kim Church

July 15, 2023

Marsha was one of the most vibrant, talented, hard-working people I have known, a true craftswoman and a good friend. Anthony and I have collected her work for years. We eat on her dishes at every meal. She will always be a beautiful part of our daily lives. My heart goes out to you, Rick, and to the community of makers and friends Marsha leaves behind. She inspired us, she brought us joy.

Peggy

July 14, 2023

I am so sorry Rick. Please know i will pray for you. I am here if u ever need to talk. Peggy

Gina Harrison

July 14, 2023

Marsha was the third out of 6 in her stair step of siblings, I was fourth out of 5. We grew up as family friends and swim team family friends. Marsha was always, always the older girl that acknowledged the younger folks around and gave us a feeling of significance ! She was kind, funny , personal and so CUTE!

Marsha and my older sister were very close friends throughout most of their lives.
My swim team family , my own family, my sister and I will miss her but will hold a spot in our hearts until we are in the same place again.

To Rick, David, Mary Jane & Owen I am terribly sorry for the loss you have endured. Know Marsha is with you in a different place... but always reachable .

Gina Harrison Hildebrandt
Columbus, Mississippi

Brent Johnson

July 14, 2023

Marsha was the first person to welcome my wife and I to the neighborhood. As the moving truck rolled up to the house she was there to and introduce herself and we became friends who took morning walks together and talk about our many shared interests. Once during one of our morning walks I was complaining about making handles for mugs when Marsha interrupted me and said, (in her beautiful Mississippi accent) "Brent, making pottery is hard work-maybe you´re just no cut-out for it." For a split second I was in shock and then I burst out laughing. I have told that story to many people as one of the most inspiring moments of clarity in my life. It encapsulates Marsha´s frank, no nonsense, no whiners style and I loved that about her and, I will cherish the memories of time spent with her.

Ronni Margolin

July 14, 2023

I was one of the lucky folks who met Marsha and Rick in the 70s at Irregardless Cafe; she was there in the early mornings baking amazing treats. Then she started providing beautiful ceramics there and elsewhere and eventually everywhere, in competitive guilds and exclusive events. She quickly became a highly respected potter. Later she was also a dedicated and accomplished yogini. In yoga classes, she was often tapped by teachers to demonstrate good form in complex movements. She never stopped being a warm and caring friend to many. Talented and successful, she worked hard and, it seemed, happily. She was humble without discounting her own ability and value. She was funny -- witty really -- but never at anyone's expense. (My son, aged 7 at the time, watching her throw pots on a wheel when we were neighbors: "Mom, I could do that if I had a wheel and some clay!" Marsha, deadpan: "A wheel and some clay and twenty-five years' practice.")
Rick, you are in my thoughts and my heart. As you make peace with your enormous loss, I wish you ease, and hope you find moments of joy in remembrance -- yours was a true and deep connection.

Dale Cousins

July 14, 2023

Marsha was excellent at most anything she tried- baking, pottery, cooking, exercising... but mostly making and keeping friends. Such good memories from so long ago and even more recently when trying to teach me how to pickle figs--she was most patient, but eventually gave up on that with me! I will miss her and send love to Rick and Mary Jane and her family of friends.

Charlotte Goddin

July 13, 2023

I have not seen Marsha in years, but that has not dulled my fond recollections of her. I particularly remember when she was first starting as a potter, was having a showing and needed more bags. I did something as simple as get bags and was rewarded with a beautiful mug she had noticed me looking at - quintessential Marsha.

Rick, my heart goes out to you and I wish you peace as you live through this as well as going forward.

Silvan Goddin

July 13, 2023

Marsha was a dear friend of my parents from their days working at Irregardless Cafe, but I also consider her a dear friend of mine. From about the age of 10 to 15, Marsha (and Rick) welcomed me into her pottery studio to experiment with clay and collaborate on a series of whimsical pots, though she definitely did the heavy lifting! I cherish the memory of those Sunday mornings, building little animals while Marsha threw on the wheel, listening to classical or whatever musical soundtrack I convinced her to put on. She never treated me like a kid, but made me feel respected and like I had something to contribute, both to her art and to our conversations. I really admired her artistic talent, cooking prowess, sense of humor, and kindness. I loved going to get pedicures with her, walk around the Raleigh arboretum, or try out new Thai restaurants- we shared a love of spicy noodles.
Marsha put our collaborative work in several gallery shows, a formative experience for me, and generously shared her profits. I used that money to pay for a trip to France after graduating high school- another formative experience. As an adult, I loved getting to catch up with her and Rick when I came back into town, or hear her and my parents reminisce about their youth.
I can still hardly believe I won´t have that chance again. She was a very special person who will be missed by many.

LISA HARRISON ANTHONY

July 13, 2023

Marsha was the best friend a person could ever have. She was creative throughout her life. She ended up having her own pottery business, "Marsha Owen Pottery." We were on the swim team together and she was an excellent backstroker. She was a gymnast extraordinaire.
Her teachers, Ms Betty and Ms Deborah were her teachers and they loved having her as a student. Talented was a small word for her skills. I will never have another friend like Marsha Owen. You will be very missed , Marsha Ethridge

LISA HARRISON ANTHONY

July 13, 2023

Marsha and I met on the swim team. Marsha was an excellent backstroker. We had so much fun skiing, picking blackberries,( with which she made the best blackberry cobbler ever,) listening to WLS with Lydia and calling to request songs. Marsha taught my mother how to embroider when she was in the hospital which was no small feat. All of her creativity ended up in her most creative art of all: "Marsha Owen Pottery." I am blessed enough to have quite a few pieces of hers that she had thrown on her wheel.
She was the best friend I ever had and ever will have.

Lawton

July 13, 2023

I knew Marsha when were young. I am sorry for Lydia, David and Mary Jane.

Wei Sun

July 13, 2023

Wei Sun

July 13, 2023

Wei Sun

July 13, 2023

Wei Sun

July 13, 2023

Wei Sun

July 13, 2023

Karey Harwood

July 13, 2023

Marsha was our next door neighbor for over 15 years. She was part of the family. She was so generous with her time and many talents. Marsha spent countless hours with our kids while they were growing up, making pottery and teaching them how to cook . Everything she made was beautiful. Everything she cooked was delicious. I will miss her friendly voice, warm smile, quick wit, and wise advice. My heart breaks that she is gone. Rick, we are still here for you. Sending much love.

Nancy Lucy

July 13, 2023

Marsha was my first cousin. When a child I could not wait for my summer visits with the Owen family. Marsha was a great swimmer as well. She was so kind and had a beautiful smile and soul. You will be missed sweet Marsha

Sarah Goddin

July 12, 2023

Marsha and I met working at Irregardless Cafe in the 70's. We became friends and roommates and, eventually, the two of us were joined by Rick and my husband Scott in sharing an apartment near the restaurant. Our restaurant friends would drop by regularly to shoot pool or make great meals. When Marsha switched from baking to making pots she clogged the drains so badly we almost got kicked out. She was full of energy, irreverent humor, blunt honesty, generosity and kindness.
My parents adored her and she visited them frequently through their old age, often bringing gifts of the homemade biscotti she knew my mother loved.
Marsha was equally kind and generous to our children - always eager to hear what they were up to, meet their friends and celebrate their adventures and accomplishments.
I find it hard to believe that Marsha is gone and will miss her every day. All my love to Rick.

Scott Bryan

July 12, 2023

I first met Marsha in the 1970's, both of us working at Irregardless Cafe; she a baker , me a dishwasher. Through the years we worked together, roomed together and had many a good time with so many friends. We still kept in touch 45+ years later. She was a beautiful person in so many ways.
I am devastated by the news of her passing. It seems so unreal to me. My heart goes out to Rick.

Harris Nathan

July 11, 2023

We shared studio space.My mind is
filled with many memories. Good
food and drink. I am heartbroken.

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