Vantoy Rip Owens

Vantoy 'Rip' Owens

Speedwell, TN

Vantoy 'Rip' Owens, age 84, of Speedwell, TN, left the loving arms of family and friends and went to be with his Lord and Savior on January 17, 2012. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Vinnie Owens; brothers, Larry and Dewey Owens; and first wife, Nan Owens.

He is survived by wife, Helen Owens; brothers, Ralph (Phyllis) Owens, Claude (Betty) Owens, Marshall (Mary Lee) Owens; sisters, Roxie Wilson, Stella (Ralph) Mundy, Lucille Moyers, Ann Hatmaker and Joyce (Kelly) Graves.

Known as 'Rip' for most of his life, he was a loving, selfless man of God, a caring brother and a wonderful man. He enjoyed playing music, gardening, fishing and helping others. His favorite thing to do was to grow bigger tomatoes than his brother, Milt. Rip was loved by all and will be greatly missed.

Funeral services will be 8 pm Thursday, January 19, 2012, at Reece Funeral Home with Pastor James Branscomb and Rev. Gary Mundy officiating. Graveside service 2 pm Friday at Ausmus Cemetery. Pallbearers, Odus Mundy, Larry Graves, Corey Eldridge, Earl Lambert, James Westmoreland and Tom Braden. Nephews will be honorary pallbearers. Visitation 6-8 Thursday at Reece Funeral Home 869 3651 or www.reecefh.com.