James Derrell Owens

James Derrell Owens, 61, died Wednesday, May 4, 2011, at an Abilene medical center Born in Cisco, Texas on May 26, 1949, James was the son of Dorothy Nell (Owen) and Charles Earl Owens. He attended public schools in Abilene. He was a proud US Army veteran of Vietnam and loved his country. After he completed his military service, he returned to Abilene in 1971. A diesel mechanic, he worked first for City of Abilene for five years, Scurlock Permian Corporation for 30 years, Stephens-Martin, and lastly Baker Bridge. He married Evelyn Ruth Stewart on October 21, 1981 in Jones County. James was a good, hardworking man who loved his family and his friends. His word was his bond. He was a member of Broadview Baptist Church and the Faith of Abraham Sunday School Class at the church. He was preceded in death by his parents, a stepson David, and a stepdaughter Donna. James is survived by his wife, Evelyn Stewart Owens of Merkel; stepson, Nicky Rucker and wife Courtney of Arlington, TX; stepdaughters, Rebecca Baldwin of Abilene and Cheryl Salazar and husband Joe of Eastland; two adopted daughters, Leah Jacoby and Kara Keele; six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Survivors also include a brother, Curtis Owens and wife Sherri of Abilene; five sisters, Linda Huff and husband Don of Abilene, Lyda Cowan and Lavonda Jackson both of Lewisville, Lesa Flannigan of Bridgeport, and Kim Corbit and husband Tom of Duncan, South Carolina; and numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. today, Friday, May 6, at Broadview Baptist Church with Rev. David Cason and Rev. Burtis Williams officiating. Burial will follow at 1:00 p.m. in Texas State Veterans Cemetery at Abilene, 7457 W. Lake Road, directed by The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road. The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses at Hendrick Medical Center, especially Dr. Trauth. Memorial contributions may be made to Broadview Baptist Church, 2500 South 27th St., Abilene, TX 79605.