Dorothy Jean Owens

Dorothy Jean Owens, 100, passed away peacefully on November 13, 2024, at her home in Beebe, Arkansas. Jean was born February 22, 1924, in Butlerville, Arkansas to parents, John Sherrill Williams and Ada Ethel Cox Williams. She graduated from Beebe High School in 1942, then attended college for a year and a half before marrying John E. Owens, Jr. in 1944. Jean and John owned Owens Lumber and Hardware for more than 50 years and were married 70 years before John passed away in 2015.

Two daughters, Judith Owens Belew and Deborah Jean Owens Walker survive their parents and grandchildren, Kristen Belew Hall and Graham Reed Walker (Kara) also survive with grandson, Matthew Owens Belew passing in 2018. “Mama Jean” was a great grandmother to Katelyn Isabella Hall and Michael Fisher Hall and an aunt to two nieces, Vickie Green Forster and Nancy Green and to four nephews, Bruce Smith (Susan), Gary Collier, Larry Collier and Chris Williams (Christi). Jean had seven siblings with Ann Green and Paul Williams (Karen) surviving and Frances Smith (Bernard), Steve Williams (Norma), Faye Collier (George), Louise Williams, Virginia McCutcheon (Charles) all deceased.

Jean’s family wishes to thank Gentiva Hospice staff – Sarah, Lacey, Sandy, Natalie, Chaplain Ted Grove and caregiver, Sierra Bailey and others whose names we don’t have for all their priceless care and love for Jean. Laveda Freeman, Rose Richardson and Dorothy Hatfield all tirelessly provided food and companionship these last 9 months along with other members of Beebe First United Methodist Church and are sincerely thanked by the family. Jean was a member of First Methodist Church for 78 years always actively serving her church. Melba Loke and Nita Olmstead need to be remembered. Both were Jean’s good friends.

A Visitation will be held Saturday, November 23 at 10:30 a.m. at Beebe First United Methodist Church, with a Memorial Service to follow at 11:00 a.m. Cremation arrangements by Smith Westbrook Funeral Home, 404 W Dewitt Henry, Beebe, Arkansas. To view the online register visit, www.smithfamilycares.com/westbrook.