Charles Owens

Okolona- Charles Edward Owens, age 93, passed peacefully from this life to be with his Lord on April 14, 2026, at his residence, surrounded by the comfort of home and a life well lived. He was born on September 7, 1932, in Bolivar County, Mississippi, to Charlie L. Owen and Zera Rhudy Owen. Charles was a man shaped by faith, service, and steady devotion. He graduated from Okolona High School and continued his education at Itawamba Junior College, laying the foundation for a life marked by diligence and integrity.

Charles proudly served his country in the United States Army as a member of the 25th Infantry Division from 1954 to 1956. His time in the service was a source of lasting pride, and he remained deeply connected to his fellow soldiers, cherishing the friendships formed during those years and faithfully attending reunions whenever possible.

Following his military service, Charles began a long and successful career with Commercial Credit Corporation, where he served in management for 37 years before retiring in 1995. He was respected not only for his work ethic, but for his character and quiet leadership.

A man of deep and abiding faith, Charles loved the Lord wholeheartedly. He was a devoted member of Parkway Baptist Church in Tupelo from 1959 until 2001, where he faithfully served as a deacon, including as chairman of the board of deacons. He also dedicated over 40 years to teaching Sunday School and lifting his voice in the church choir, impacting countless lives through both word and example.

In 2001, Charles and his beloved wife, Estelle Cubley Owens, returned to his family’s home place in Chickasaw County. There, they became active members of Okolona First Baptist Church, where he continued his service as a deacon and participated in numerous church committees. Over the years, he also served as a deacon at Shannon First Baptist Church and was a current member of Central Grove Baptist Church.

Charles was equally devoted to his community. He was a longtime member of the Tupelo Breakfast Civitan Club, where he served faithfully for over 50 years, holding every office within the organization. His commitment to service extended far beyond titles, as he quietly invested in the lives of those around him.

After returning to Chickasaw County, Charles found great joy in the simple, meaningful rhythms of country life. He loved gardening, raising cattle, and was an active member of the Cattlemen’s Association. These days reflected his appreciation for hard work, stewardship, and the land he called home.

Above all, Charles treasured his family. He and Estelle shared a love for travel and adventure, creating cherished memories as they visited all 50 states, as well as Mexico and Canada. Some of their most meaningful journeys were those spent camping and traveling with their grandchildren, passing down a legacy of love, laughter, and togetherness.

Charles will be remembered as a faithful servant, a devoted husband, a loving family man, and a steady presence in every life he touched. His legacy is one of quiet strength, enduring faith, and a life lived with purpose.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Estelle Owens of Okolona; four daughters, Charlene Estelle Baldwyn of Okolona, Jamie Underwood (Gary) of Okolona, Melinda Anderson (Mark), of Ellisville, and Sonya Owens of Shannon; grandchildren, Blair Baldwyn, Brittany Ghanem, Drew Bledsoe, Lorie Graham, Noel Dickerson, Chase Anderson, Lee Anderson, Isaiah Sheffield, and Zachary Underwood; 15 great-grandchildren; sister, Peggy Ratlif; and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Zera Owen; two brothers, H.D. Owen and James Harold Owen; and a sister, Maudine Bryant.

A memorial visitation will be 12:30 p.m. until service time Sunday, April 19, 2026, at Central Grove Baptist Church.

A memorial service honoring the life of Mr. Owens will be 2 p.m. Sunday, April 19, 2026, at Central Grove Baptist Church with Rev. John Davis and Rev. Mark Anderson officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Sanctuary Hospice House at PO Box 2177, Tupelo, MS 38803, The Baptist Children’s Village at PO Box 27, Clinton, MS 39060, Global Outreach International at PO Box 1, Tupelo, MS 38802, or Central Grove Baptist Church at 30298 Central Grove Road, Aberdeen, MS 39730.

Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be made at www.PeguesFuneralHome.com.