James Clifford Owens, 88 years of age, entered into eternal rest in the presence of God at 1:18 a.m. on Monday, December 2, 2024. He will be greatly missed by Wilma Jean Owens, his wife of nearly 69 years. The evening of his passing, he was comforted by family members Allen & Tom Owens, Joyce Baker, and Lydia Stewart. The family would like to extend a special “thank you” to caregivers Cindy Houston and Carolyn Ridenour for the tremendous care they provided to Clifford over the last two years.

Born in Habersham, TN on March 23, 1936, to Jess Owens and Lydia Ayers Owens, he was the eldest of four children. He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Deloris White, Paulette Wilson, and Ray Owens. Raised in humble beginnings, Clifford went on to play football on the Lafollette High School state championship team in the 1950’s. While in high school, he met his future wife, Wilma Jean Gaylor. Following their marriage, Clifford served in the United States Army. Following his service, he eventually joined his father Jess and brother Ray in the electrical craft as members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. As a journeyman electrician, he provided for his wife and two sons while traveling the country in the construction industry.

His career was followed by 26 years of retirement where he continued to enjoy being a grandfather figure to a host of children for whom Wilma provided childcare. Led by the two eldest of these children, Laura Daniels and Rachel Rayburn, his work nickname of “Honey” became well known along with other terms of endearment such as “Wolly Bugger, Papaw Honey, and Pop.”

Along with Wilma, Clifford is survived by sons, Allen Owens (Pam) and Tom Owens (Leigh); grandchildren include Linda Jones, Lydia Stewart, Allison Colvin, and Logan Owens; great-grandchildren include Ariel Jones and Lily Colvin.

The family will receive friends Friday, December 6, 2024 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm. Funeral Services will follow at 6:00pm, December 6, 2024 at Mynatt Funeral Home Powell Chapel with Reverend Don Brown officiating.  Family and friends will meet at 12:45 p.m. on Saturday, December 7, 2024, for a 1:00 p.m. entombment at Sherwood Chapel & Memorial Gardens, 3176 Airport Highway, Alcoa, TN.