Clyde Wayne Owen

Clyde Wayne Owen, 76, died peacefully on Friday, December 5, 2025. While he was born on June 1, 1949 in New Boston, TX, the date that fundamentally changed his life was his sobriety date of December 9, 1984. For over four decades, he was a dedicated and productive member of his community, transforming his own life and countless others.

Clyde’s life was a testament to the power of one person carrying a message of hope. He helped hundreds of men on their journey to sobriety through tireless sponsorship and mentoring. This dedication was evident in the final moments of his life, where he was surrounded, not only by family, but also by twelve members of Alcoholics Anonymous as proof of his enduring impact on the lives of others..

Spiritual Life and Service

A deeply spiritual man, Clyde was confirmed in the Catholic Church in 2009, with his long-time sponsor as a guide. His faith fueled his compassion and led to significant ministries:

• Sponsorship: Clyde worked with men, both individually and as part of a group, helping them grasp and maintain the spiritual principles of Alcoholics Anonymous.

• Prison Outreach: Clyde was passionate about carrying the message of hope and faith to prisoners in institutions of every kind, a practice he maintained for decades.

• Morning Phone Ministry: Clyde maintained a quiet, personal outreach, calling countless friends and prospects every morning. These calls - often filled with laughter, joking, and a simple message of love - helped many men “get their day off to a good start.” He was also known to read the Daily Missal with a fellow Catholic AA member every morning over the phone.

Clyde was known as a tough guy and a tough sponsor. Behind the bravado was a kind and generous heart. He had a strong love for the spiritual life, sharing and discussing AA literature, as well as other spiritual books.

Family

Clyde is survived by his son, James Owen (wife, Britney), and his two beautiful granddaughters, Ellie and Gracie. The presence of his son and both his former wives at his deathbed, is a powerful testament to the man he became and amends made.

Service Information

A Funeral Mass will be held for Clyde at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church. Following the Mass, all are invited to a Memorial Luncheon for a time of food, fellowship, and sharing favorite stories and memories of Clyde's life.

• Date and Time: (To be determined)

• Location: Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church

• Luncheon: Immediately following the Mass in the cafeteria.

On Saturday, December 13th, a Memorial Bonfire and Potluck will be held at Jimmy Dixon’s house (1810 Prysock Rd., Benton, AR 72015). This is open to everyone who loved Clyde, and bringing a dish is not required. Come anytime after 4:00 pm. The bonfire will start near dark and run until the cigars are gone.

Smith Little Rock Funeral Home

8801 Knoedl Ct, Little Rock, AR 72205 501-224-2200

www.SmithFamilyCares.com