Bessie Irby Owen

Mrs. Bessie Irby Owen, a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother passed away on March 2, 2025 at the age of 84. Bessie was born in Halifax County on October 16, 1940 to the late James Wilson Irby and the late Lula May Martin Irby. She was married to John Alfred Owen who survives.

 Bessie was a member of the Freedom Worship Center. She retired from Tultex and Hilden after many years of dedicated service. Bessie had a passion for working with her hands and through her talent she brought color and warmth to the lives of those around her through handmade treasures. Her greatest joy was her family, and her passing will leave a void in all who knew her. 

 Left to cherish her memory:

Her Beloved Husband of 65 years

John Alfred Owen of the home

Her Children

Theresa Anderson and husband Kenneth of Nathalie

Vergie Roark and husband Chip of Nathalie

Otis Alfred Owen and wife Sheila of Lynchburg

Charlie Edward Owen of Halifax

Six Grandchildren

Otis “AJ” Owen, Stephanie Owen, Miranda Williamson, Michael Grove, Jason Allen Owen and John Roark

Fourteen Great Grandchildren

Siblings

Mary Magdeline Bass of Halifax

Hugh Thomas Irby of Halifax

William Edward Irby of Halifax

Donald Hagood Irby of Roxboro, NC

Host of Nieces, Nephews and extended family

***Preceded in death by***

Four Brothers

Bernard Lewis Irby, James Willard Irby, Orana I. Clark, and Michael Irby 

 A funeral service will be held on Thursday, March 6, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. at Powell Funeral Home with the Rev. Ricky Whitlow and Rev. Michael Allen officiating. Burial to follow in the McCormick/Owen Family Cemetery in Clays Mill. 

 The family will receive friends on Thursday, one hour prior to the service and other times at her home.

 For memorials, please consider Halifax County Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 183. South Boston, VA 24592.

 Online condolences may be directed to www.powellfuneralinc.com.

 Arrangements entrusted to Powell Funeral Home, 1603 Wilborn Ave., South Boston, VA 24592.