James Clyde “Jim” Owens, 80, of Edenton, NC passed away peacefully at his residence surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, August 18, 2026.

Born on December 17, 1945, Jim was the husband of 57 years to Portia Lee Bateman Owens and was the son of Minnie Clyde Owens and Martha Whiteman Owens, both deceased. Jim proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force, retiring as Senior Master Sergeant in 1990 with more than 25 years of active duty service. He graduated from Valley Forge Christian College with a B.A. in Bible. He followed his Air Force career with another career serving as a Veteran’s Representative for the North Carolina Employment Office.

Survivors include his wife, Portia of the home; daughter, Melissa Stewart and husband, William of Delaware; four grandchildren, Samantha Stewart Atancio and husband, Chris, Alexander Stewart, Zackary Stewart and wife Meg, and Shannon Stewart and husband, Danny; two great grandchildren, Leo Joseph Stewart and Nora Jane Stewart; sister, Minnie Annette Owens Chance; and many beloved nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by six siblings, William Lee Owens, Jesse Merle Owens, Lynnwood Earl Owens, Brenda Owens DeReyna, and two infant brothers.

Anyone who knew Jim was blessed to enjoy his quick wit and generous spirit. He was a devoted Christian who faithfully volunteered him time and talent to every church he attended, serving as a Sunday School teacher, board member, youth leader, and lay preacher. He loved studying history and Greek, always eager to learn new things. He loved spending time with family and friends, watching football, coin collecting, viewing cowboy movies, and reading

Funeral services celebrating Jim’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2026 at Happy Home Church, 534 Happy Home Road, Tyner, NC with Pastor Walter Byrum officiating. The family will greet friends on Saturday immediately following the service at the church. Interment with military honors will follow at Beaver Hill Cemetery. Edenton, NC.

Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 1735 Virginia Road, Edenton, NC is assisting the Owens family with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com