Birth Date: 04/11/1942
Deceased Date: 06/04/2021
James Cloyd Owens (79) passed away June 4, 2021 in Smithfield NC, after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease.
James (Sandy/Jimbo) was born on April 11, 1942 in Cleveland TN. He attended the University of Alabama (B.S. in Chemical Engineering), and later went on to get an MBA. While at Alabama, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Army, and served his country for 12 years including a tour of duty in Vietnam.
Jimbo was an athlete who remained extremely active until the very end. His passion was tennis, and played competitively into his 70’s. Whether it was playing tennis, golf, pickleball, or walking, he was always on the move. The Alzheimer’s took his mind, but could not take his strength or his love for an active life.
He will be sorely missed and is survived by his daughter Ginger, son Chris, son-in law Kurt, daughter-in law Shannon, his siblings Marcia and Charlie, and 5 grandchildren: Troy, Madison, Corbin, Ryan and Andie. They will be honoring his memory by scattering his ashes in a private ceremony, and an engraved brick will be placed in the Veterans Memorial at the SECU Hospice House in Smithfield NC.
People wishing to pay tribute to Jimbo’s memory can make donations to the below organizations:
Alzheimer’s Association- www.act.alz.org
Johnston UNC Health Care- www.johnstonhealth.org
Condolences may be made to the family at www.underwoodfh.com
Jim was one of the best friends you could have everyone in Chattanooga loved him.
Jim was a good friend and very good tennis player. He was liked by everyone and will be missed by all.