In Loving Memory of Gerald Bennett Owens

Gerald Bennett Owens, age 93, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2026. Born May 31, 1933, in Plant City, Florida, Gerald was the son of Mary Bennett Rainey and Delmar Owens.

Gerald’s life was a testament to perseverance, determination, and the belief that hard work could open doors to a brighter future. Growing up on a farm, he learned at an early age the value of working hard, facing challenges head-on, and never giving up. From those humble beginnings, Gerald went on to settle in Lithonia, GA, where he was quarterback of the football team and captain of the baseball team.

In 1953, Gerald walked onto the track team at the University of Georgia as a sprinter. His speed and determination quickly earned the attention of his coach, the legendary Spec Towns, who affectionately gave him the nickname “Jesse.”

Prior to completing his degree, Gerald was called to serve his country. On January 3, 1955, he joined the United States Navy, where he rose to the rank of Quartermaster Second Class (QM2), serving his country with pride and dedication. His military service became an important part of the life he built and the legacy he leaves behind. Once discharged from military service, Gerald returned to the University of Georgia where he completed his degree. Following his graduation, Gerald began a productive career in sales, where his determination, work ethic, and ability to connect with people served him well.

Above all else, Gerald was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He shared his life with his beloved wife, Kay Owens of Newnan, Georgia, and together they built a family filled with love and memories. Gerald took great pride in his children and grandchildren and was blessed to see his family continue to grow through the years.

Whether competing on the track, serving his country, building his career, or providing for his family, Gerald approached life with quiet strength and purpose.

He is survived by his wife, Kay Owens of Newnan, Georgia; sons, Nathan and Alaina Owens of Canton, Georgia, and Ryan Owens of Newnan, Georgia; daughters, Jennifer and Larry Boudreau of Poughkeepsie, New York, and Erin and Greg Schlachter of Atlanta, Georgia; seven grandchildren, Oliver Owens, Evie Schlachter, Anna Schlachter, Parker Boudreau, Joshua Boudreau, Claire Boudreau, and Stephanie Boudreau; and two great-grandchildren, Sophia Boudreau and Emma Boudreau.

Gerald was preceded in death by his son, John Owens. Though Gerald’s life began with humble beginnings on a farm in Florida, his journey carried him far beyond those fields—to the University of Georgia, the United States Navy, a successful career, and most importantly, a loving family. His life reminds us that our beginnings do not define how far we can go. Through determination, faith in himself, and an unwavering work ethic, Gerald built a life of which he could be proud.

His family will remember him not only for the things he accomplished, but for the life he shared with them and the memories he leaves behind. His legacy will continue through his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who will carry a part of him forward in all the years to come.

Funeral services for Gerald Bennett Owens will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at Georgia National Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest with full United States Navy Honors.