Tuesday, January 2, 2018 3:12 pm

Bobby Ray Owens, 73, passed away Monday, January 1, 2018. He was born September 8, 1944 in Sampson County to the late, John Oliver and Virginia Royal Owens. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by son, Gary Wayne Strickland; two brothers, J.C. Owens and James David Owens; two sisters, Larry Dean Owens and Berline Johnson.

He is survived by his wife, Wilma Owens; son, Greg Owens; brother, Rev. Michael Owens and wife Gail of Stedman, NC; sister, Nancy Hollingsworth; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 6, 2018 at 1 p.m. Cornerstone Funeral Home with Rev. Derek Bossolona officiating. Visitation will follow with family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations made be made to Friends of Nash Hospice, 2460 Curtis Ellis Drive, Rocky Mount NC 27804 or the charity of one's choice.

Arrangements by Cornerstone Funeral Home and Creamations, Nashville.