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October 1, 1945 – October 9, 2023

Wilma Rae Jackson Owens, 78, of Columbia, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 9, 2023 at ECU Health Chowan Hospital.

She was born in Tyrrell County on October 1, 1945, to the late Delton and Grace Holadia Jackson, and was married to George Griffin Owens Jr., who survives.

She was a lifelong member of Soundside Missionary Baptist Church, a graduate of Columbia High School and of the Louise Obici School of Nursing in Suffolk, Va.

As a registered nurse, Rae cared for others in local hospitals and eventually, after raising a family, she began a career as a home health nurse. She loved her patients, and many became like family.

Rae’s most treasured occupation was being a mother and grandmother. Her family was her life, and she was devoted to being there for them in any way that she could.  She also loved her many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service was held at 11 a.m. on Friday, October 13, 2023 at Soundside Missionary Baptist Church. Pastor Lee Johnson officiated. A burial followed in the church cemetery.

The family received friends Thursday, October 12, 2023, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Bryan Funeral Service.

In addition to her husband surviving is a son, George G. Owens III (Nicole) of Gatesville; two daughters, Hannah O. Rogers (Steve) of Gatesville, Caroline O. Chandler (Scott) of Roper, and eight grandchildren, John Griffin Rogers, Emily C. Youmans (Caleb), Madeline Chandler, Mollie Chandler, Sidney Gardner, Davis Owens, Braeden Owens, and Dominic Owens.

She was preceded in death by a brother, Nathan Jackson and two sisters, Carrie Lee J. Reynolds, and Betty Mae J. Midgett.

Arrangements are by Bryan Funeral Service, Columbia.

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