James Hunter Owens

James Hunter Owens, 94, passed away August 2, 2024. He was also known as Teeny, Puddin’ Dog and the Candy Man. He was born in Winchester, VA to John W. and Pearl W. Owens on June 19,1930. He leaves behind a daughter, Susan Wickline (Mitch), granddaughter Alayna Wickline Fox (Zachary), great grandson Colton, special in-laws Sandy Campbell and Terry & Donna Wolverton of Frederick County, numerous nieces and nephews in Virginia, West Virginia, family in Florida, as well as his dear friend Bill Stinson. He was married to the former Jean Ritter for 56 years before she passed away in 2014. He was also preceded in death by his son, Gary (who passed away in 1978), and two sisters and four brothers. James joined the Rouss Fire Company in May 1946, along side his brothers (Richard and Jack) and his father. During a 1949 monthly meeting, he (along with Donald Seabright and Louis Ebert) raised a motion to form a drum corp officially creating the Charley Rouss Drum and Bugle Corp. He was a member, marching with them for a number of years. In 1951, James and his brother (Richard) were drafted into the army where they would spend two years side-by-side, having served in Europe. James worked for Valley Food Company for 35 years, first as a route salesman and then route supervisor. He then worked for J.C. Bly of Fredericksburg until his retirement. He also spent many years volunteering for the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival. He was an associate member and supporter of: Virginia State Fireman’s Association, Virginia State Fireman’s Charitable Foundation, the American Legion, the Disabled American Veterans, the Eastern Paralyzed Veterans, Paralyzed Veterans of America, the United Spinal Association, the National USO and Boys Town. He never forgot his friends and loved to hunt with the good old boys. It didn’t matter if you got any game, the fun was being with the gang, having coffee, donuts, cheese/crackers, butter beans and of course the famous puddin’ dogs. His old truck was known as the chuck wagon – just help yourself. He always looked for the good in people saying “it is there if you look deep enough.” He cherished many friends over the years including: Robert Whitacer (childhood friend); Donald Seabright and Jimmy Boyd (friends from the fire hall); and Jim Milburn, Kirk Gordon, Bob Owens, Clarence Chrisman, and son-in-law Mitch, who were his hunting pals where they spent lots of good times together. He shared many memories with Joe (Papa) Manuel and Bill (Silver Fox) Jones. He hopes to see them again, to walk a wooded trail, see some game or count some cattle. Also James Hammond and Robert Dyke who he worked with for many years – they were great at their job and made his work a whole lot easier. A big thank you to the Yancey/Kitts family for their extreme kindness shown to his family. Last, but not least, he enjoyed time with the Coffee Club Boys (Ray Dubreuler, Louie Seekford, Jerry Allen, Chuck Miller and Bill) and Jenny for serving coffee with a smile and a hello. And a special thanks to Bill Stinson (and Kathy) for their compassion, advice and understanding. All true friends and comrades. He truly appreciated his friends and family who always offered assistance over the years. He hated to owe anyone, and hopes all his debts were paid. Additional thanks to all of the friends over the years that have not been listed, and to the men and women who have served in the armed forces for our country – James salutes you. If you see one of these heroes, please give them a pat on the back, a handshake, or a big hug. P.S. He apologizes about the chocolate candy – saying it’s pretty hot down there (haha)! A graveside service will be Friday at 1:00 p.m. in Shenandoah Memorial Park with Pastor Ed Schraff officiating. Friends will be received on Thursday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. in Phelps Funeral Chapel, 311 Hope Drive, Winchester. Arrangements are by Phelps Funeral & Cremation Service, Winchester, VA.

James Hunter Owens

June 19, 1930 - August 2, 2024