James “Bud” Langley Owens, 87, passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, at his home in Hudgins.

Bud was born in Mathews County and graduated from Mathews High School. He was a member and deacon of Mathews Baptist Church, and was a founder and lifetime member of the Mathews Volunteer Rescue Squad. Bud was in the U.S. Army for three years. He was a lifetime waterman and Postmaster of Redart P.O. for 31 years.

He liked to deer hunt and he was a member of the Down the Road Hunt Club. 

He was predeceased by his father, Leon Owens Sr.; his mother, Marion Owens; a son, Langley Owens, and a sister-in-law, Shirley Owens. 

Bud is survived by his wife, Nellie Mae Owens of 62 years; a daughter, Pam Harrington (Patrick); grandsons, Clay and Will Harrington; brothers, Leon Owens Jr., and Archie Owens (Marilyn); a sister, Louise Diggs (Edward), and numerous nieces and nephews.

Bud and his wife took the greatest pleasure in hosting exchange students from Mexico for many years. As a result, priceless relationships were formed with all who passed through their home. His special family includes Nora, Sandra, Rosy, Claudia, Aidee, Ana, Miguel, German and Emilio.

The family received friends on Sunday, Sept. 3, 2017, from 2-3 p.m. at Mathews Baptist Church at Hudgins, followed by a funeral service at the church at 3 o’clock with burial at H.C. Smither Cemetery.

Donations may be made in “Bud’s memory” to Mathews Baptist Church, P.O. Box 8, Hudgins, Virginia 23076 or to the Mathews Volunteer Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 723, Mathews, Virginia 23109.

Faulkner Funeral Homes, Foster-Faulkner Chapel, Mathews, was in charge of the arrangements.