Rev. Oscar Owens

1935 - 2025

Rev. Oscar Owens

June 11, 1935 - September 19, 2025

Rev. Oscar Owens, born June 11, 1935, went to be with the Lord in his heavenly home on September 19, 2025. A devoted servant of God, loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he leaves behind a legacy of faith, compassion, and unwavering dedication to God, his family, and community.

Born in Wardell, MO, Oscar grew up in the cotton fields until the age of 12 when his family moved to Leroy Il. Known forbeing shy, Oscar accepted Jesus as his savior and was filled with the Holy Ghost at age 19, which transformed him into a mightywitness for the Lord from that day until his passing.

Oscar married his beloved Carlene on August 10, 1957, in Bloomington, IL. Oscar and Carlene where the embodiment of two flesh becoming one. The love they had for each other was endless, and enduring, always preferring and caring for the otherover themself. Together, they built a life rooted in faith and family. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Carlene Owens; their children, Debbie (Paul) Ayappa of Lincoln, Jody (Les) Van Bibber of Mackinaw, and Steve (Debbie) Owens of Lincoln; grandchildren, Josh (Christina) Long, Sarah Van Bibber-Jones, Amber (Tyler) Leipold, Jared (Mandy) Owens, Zach (Annie) Ayappa, Jordan Owens, Katie (Ira) Embery,Josalyn Owens; great-grandchildren, Tyler Long, Makenzie Van Bibber, Zachary Long, Jacob Long, Alyssa Long, Hayden Leipold, Landon Leipold, Hudson Ayappa, and Henley Ayappa; Brothers Benny (Jerry) Owens, Wendell Owens, Jerry (Sandy) Owens, David (June) Owens; one sister, Carol Phelps; brother in law Chuck (Bobbie) Stepp; and many nieces and nephews. His warmth, wisdom, and gentle spirit touched the lives of all who knew him.

Oscar and Carlene served the Lord with devotion at Bethel Church in Bloomington, IL for many years before answering the call to pastor Full Gospel Evangelistic Center in Lincoln in February 1977. He was ordained with the Bethel Ministerial Association for 50 years and served on its executive board of directors. Rev. Owens led the congregation of Full Gospel with steadfast faith and love until his retirement as Senior Pastor in April 2011 when he passed the torch of pastor to his son and daughter in law, Steve and Debbie. Upon retirement, he was elevated with the title of Bishop, a role he faithfully fulfilled until his passing. With over 48 years in ministry, Rev. Owens was one of Lincoln's longest-serving pastors, leaving an indelible mark on the community through his sermons, mentorship, and tireless service.

Nothing brought Oscar greater joy than his family. He cherished playing ball with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, pulling them in a wagon behind his tractor, and taking them on golf cart rides around the property. He was a constant presence at their school activities, cheering them on with pride and love. Oscar also loved going on family vacations. The opportunity to see new places with loved ones gave him great joy. He had a tremendous love for the nation of Israel and was blessed to travel to the Holy Land two separate times, fulfilling a lifelong dream.

In his later years, Oscar found deep fulfillment in reading the Bible and other books to Carlene, their shared moments strengthening their lifelong bond. He spent hours in daily prayer, interceding for his family, church, and nation, with a heart full of hope and devotion. His faith and love for his family were the cornerstone of his life, inspiring all who knew him.

June 14, 2025, he was blessed to celebrate his 90th birthday with a party welcoming friends and loved ones, many traveling across the country to attend.

His legacy endures in the countless lives he touched through his ministry, his commitment to spreading the Gospel, and his ability to inspire faith and hope. To truly and accurately convey his legacy would require a book. Known for his compassionate heart and unwavering dedication, Rev. Owens was a beacon of light to his congregation and beyond.

Visitation will be Friday, September 26th, from 5:00 PM-7:00 PM. A celebration service honoring Rev. Owens will be on Saturday, September 27th, at 11:00 AM. Both events will be held at Full Gospel Evangelistic Center, located at 304 N. McLean St, Lincoln, IL.

Memorials honoring Rev. Owens may be made to Full Gospel Evangelistic Center, the place he loved with every fiber of his being.

The family invites all who knew Rev. Owens to join in celebrating his remarkable life and ministry. They express their heartfelt gratitude for the love and support of Full Gospel and the community during this time. In the words of John 14:2, "In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you," a verse that reflects the faith that guided Rev. Owens' life.

His final message to everyone is found in Romans 10:13, which reads: "For 'whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.'"