William Brian “Willie B” Owens passed away on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2020 at the age of 60. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Jean Owens, and his brother, Randy Owens.
He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Catherine; son, Brian Owens; brother, John Owens (Cathy); sisters, Vickie Morgan, Brenda Close and Judy Hash (Wayne); in-laws, Ann Davis (Steve), Pam Morris (Nelson), John Miller (Sheryl); mother-in-law, Janice Miller, and many nieces, nephews and great-nieces and -nephews.
Willie lived in Mathews, Virginia, most of his life. He was a Merchant Seaman for 11 years with the Virginia Pilot Association and worked for Tyger Construction & Allied Towing. He then worked for 20 years as an oil movements operator at Western (Amoco) Refinery. Willie was also a firefighter at the refinery and retired in 2009. He attended St.
Paul United Methodist Church in Susan where he helped to take care of the lawn and assist with the backpack program.
Willie loved to be outside and on the water. He was a great gardener and liked to go clamming and sightseeing on the water. He was a sports fan and enjoyed watching baseball, basketball and football games, especially the New York Giants and the Orioles. He loved to watch his son Brian pitch baseball from an early age through college.
Willie endured many health issues from the stroke in 2009 until his passing and he was blessed with the love and support of wonderful friends and family. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a private graveside service will be held at St. Paul United Methodist Church Cemetery. The family wishes to especially thank all the staff at Francis N. Sanders Nursing Home (rehab unit) in Gloucester for their wonderful care.
Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to the Mathews Volunteer Rescue Squad, 94 Cricket Hill Road, Hudgins, Va. 23076 or the Mathews Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 1130, Mathews, Va. 23109.
Faulkner Funeral Homes, Foster-Faulkner Chapel, Mathews, is assisting the family. Please be advised that current state-mandated guidelines will apply to all in attendance, including social distancing and appropriate face coverings. We sincerely appreciate your understanding.