Obituary of Millard F. Owens, III

Millard “Mickey” Owens III left this life on November 6, 2023. We could say unexpectedly, or surprisingly, but we know there are no guarantees.

He is survived by his wife Cathy Owens, son Mick Owens, daughter Christina Owens Knapp and husband Sam, grandson Cody Dillon-Owens and wife Paris, sister Lyda Berry and husband Brent, brother Ashby Owens and wife Lesley, nephew Drew Owens and niece Linsdey Owens. His parents were Millard and Elizabeth “Libby” Owens, previously of Parkersburg, WV and Clifton Forge, VA.

Mickey grew up in Parkersburg, WV, where he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. He graduated from Concord College, then taught school in Roanoke City where he worked with the Chess program for many years. He volunteered for the Boy Scouts, and loved photography and scuba diving. He became a scuba instructor and shared his love of diving with many. He traveled the Pacific, Atlantic, Caribbean, and Red Sea in many adventures.

Mickey’s car radio may no longer recognize anything but the Margaritaville channel, as he believed in the words of Jimmy Buffet “life is a journey measured not in miles or years, but in experiences…” He will be missed by many.

A Celebration of Mickey’s life will be held on Sunday, November 12, 2023 from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the home of Mickey's brother, Ashby Owens, 475 Stoneledge Drive, Roanoke, VA 24019. It will be a Jimmy Buffet and Margaritaville themed event. Hawaiian attire is encouraged. 

In lieu of flowers the family has requested that memorial donations be made to the Ocean Conservancy Organization at www.donate.oceanconservancy.org or to the charity of your choice.   

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to www.simpsonfuneral.com