Marion Eugene “Gene” Owens, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones at his home in Columbus, NC on June 8, 2026. He was 87.

Gene was a devoted husband , father and “Papa” to his family. He was employed by Bank of America for 38 years. He was also in the Army Reserves and a member of the Tryon American Legion. He was also a fervent supporter of North Carolina Tarheel basketball and a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity (NC Pi Chapter at Western Carolina University). Gene was an active member of his community and served several terms on the Columbus Town Council, the Polk County Jaycees and as a Deacon at Columbus Baptist Church. He also supported the local high school and community sports teams in which he enjoyed watching his grandchildren and great grandchildren participate. 

Gene was preceded in death by his wife of 47 years, Brenda Splawn Owens as well as his father Cephas and mother Lillie Owens in addition to all six of his siblings. 

Left to carry on his legacy and cherish his memory are a daughter, Christa Hampton and a son, Dale Owens (Wendi) both of Columbus, NC. He is also survived by his greatest joys which were his grandchildren, Jon Hampton (Samantha) of Charlotte, NC, Kelci Hampton of Columbus, NC, Lily Owens Painter (Daniel) of Spartanburg, SC and Holden Owens of Charlotte, NC, as well as four Great Grandchildren Liam, Lucas, Noah and Ellie. He is also survived by his “second daughter”, Cheri McIntyre of Boiling Speings, SC. Gene was also preceded in death by his long time companion and friend, Ann Wallace Fisher. 

The family will receive a visitation of friends at McFarland Funeral Chapel in Tryon, NC on Friday, June 12th from 12:30 - 2:00 pm followed immediately by a Graveside Service and Burial at 2:30 pm at Polk Memorial Gardens in Columbus, NC officiated by Mr. Phil Scoggins. A celebration of Gene’s life will be held at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, 107 Ozone Drive, Saluda, NC 28733.