Thomas Meloan Owens, Jr passed away at the age of 89 on Wednesday, March 12, 2008, at his home in Ahwatukee. He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Hazel Elliott Owens. Also surviving are his loving children; SueAnn Owens-Singer (husband Jack), Gwendolyn Jo Huffman, Thomas Meloan Owens III, ( former daughter-in-law Vicki Smith Owens Dietz). Tommy's parents, Thomas Meloan Owens, Sr. and Edith Mae Warner Owens were pioneers in the Kyrene farming community. Also surviving are brothers; Warner Ellis Owens (wife Marjory McAllister Owens, deceased) and George Calvin Owens (wife Marcella Ellis Owens). Surviving grandchildren are Tomi Owens Costello ( husband Daniel), Tonia Owens-Sopeland, Eric Huffman and Hilary Huffman and great grandchildren Eoin and Thomas Costello and Neve Sopeland. nieces and nephew are Stuart, Kirk, Lyn, Joyce and Sandra. A niece Kerry Jean and nephew Gary predeceased their uncle. Tommy and Warner ran the family farm until it was sold. Tommy served on the Tempe Union High School Board of Education from 1951 to 1971. He was appointed to the District Council of SRP in 1967, and was elected to both the Association and District Councils in 1968 serving until May of 1978. He was elected in 1978 as a member of the District and Association Boards, serving until May, 1982. In 1982, Tommy was elected for a second time to the District and Association Councils and served until July 1985. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 East Flower St., Phoenix, Arizona 85014-5656. The family is so grateful for the compassionate, sensitive and professional care hospice provided for our beloved husband, dad and papa. Tommy will be sorely missed by his family and friends. The Memorial Service in celebration of Tommy's life will be Friday, March 21,2008, 10:30 AM. Resthaven Park Mortuary & Cemetery, 4310 E. Southern Ave., Phoenix, Arizona.
Published in The Arizona Republic on Mar. 19, 2008