Robert Taggart Owens of the Jeffersonville community passed away peacefully Sunday, September 24, 2017 at Carriage Court Assisted Living. His life will be celebrated at Jeffersonville United Methodist Church on Friday, September 29 at 11am. Visitation will be Thursday, September 28 from 4-7 pm at the church and one hour preceding the service. The Rev. Tom Knauff will conduct the service.
The son of the late Justin L. and Eva T. Owens, Mr. Owens was born in Washington C.H on January 14, 1920. An alumnus of Jeffersonville High School, he studied at the Ohio State University, College of Agriculture. After graduating, he worked in Dutchess County, NY where he met his late wife, Frances. They were married for nearly 67 years and lived on the Owens family farm on Pleasant View Rd. There he specialized in raising Duroc hogs.
As an active member of Jeffersonville United Methodist Church, Mr. Owens served in numerous lay leadership roles from Sunday school teacher to Administrative Board Chairman. He was a member of the Eastern Star OES #200 and 75 yr. member of Masonic Lodge #468 F&AM. He participated in many agricultural events and organizations: swine judge at county and state fairs, Farm Bureau, and Fayette Co. Agriculture Society. He was inducted into the Ohio State University Animal Science Hall of Fame for his lifelong contributions to the swine industry.
As a member of the first Miami Trace School Board of Education, he found great satisfaction and fulfillment in the consolidation of five county school systems and the building process. He enjoyed seeing the growing number of achievements of students and staff alike. He was the last of the original five board members.
Surviving children include Jean (Ronald) Osborne of Greenwood, SC; David (Beth) Owens of Southern Pines, NC; Mary Kepple of Mt. Vernon, OH and Richard (Judy) Owens of Jeffersonville, OH. Grandchildren: Robert and Daniel Osborne, Michael and Jeffrey Owens, Carrie Jadud, Sarah Kepple, Justin and Andrew Owens. He also enjoyed eleven great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by Eloise Robinson, sister, and John Kepple, son-in-law.
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made in memory of Robert Owens to the Jeffersonville United Methodist Church, 13 E. High St. 43128.
Morrow Funeral Home, Jeffersonville is in charge of funeral arrangements.