James Otis Owens

James Otis Owens, (77), of Cincinnati, Ohio, went to join the Lord from heart complications linked to kidney disease on February 14th, 2023. Jim, known to some as Jim-dog, was born to Theodore and Aldena Owens(Jonas), on April 6th, 1945, in Virgie, Kentucky. After graduating from Virgie High School in 1963, he served in the US Air Force in Vietnam as an aircraft mechanic reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant. He married his wife, Sherry Bishop, on September 28th, 1968 soon after his return. He did various jobs and worked to achieve an Associate Degree in Business before becoming an employee of American Electric Power with a career spanning 30 years where he worked his way up from moving equipment in the supply yard, to right-of-way agent, to leading the regional department of right-of-way in Columbus. He retired in 2008 and moved with Sherry to Clarkdale, AZ. Jim’s retirement was primarily spent traveling, eating, volunteering, reading, and spending time with friends and family. Jim had a brilliant, inquisitive mind and a sharp(and often corny) wit. His caring nature extended past his family and friends to strangers that he felt needed his help. To his family, he demonstrated what it meant to be a true servant leader doing whatever it took to support and nurture. He spent nearly all his time doing things for others often to his own detriment. He had a strong morale compass and was honest to a fault(sometimes people don’t want the truth!). He was a Christian, a wonderful husband, and an amazing father. He will truly be missed by all. Jim is survived by his wife Sherry, two children, Jason and Justin, and his three grandchildren Alexandra Rollins, Blake Owens, and Tyler Owens. He is also survived by his brother George Owens and his sister Sandra Clark. Jim chose to be cremated and will be interred with full military honors at the Dayton National Cemetery at a future date. Details of the service will be shared as they become available. Additionally, a Celebration of Life will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, Memorial contributions suggested for Tunnel to Towers Foundation @ T2T.org or the National Kidney Foundation @ www.kidney.org. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.neptunesociety.com/location/cincinnati-oh-cremation for the Owens family.