Gil would like to let you know his WORK here is done. He received a call on April 21st, an offer he couldn’t refuse, to be reunited with family and friends that he hasn’t seen in a long time. But most importantly to be with Jesus Christ our Lord in his eternal home.
Gil’s story started on December 21, 1923. He was born to John Gilbert and Addie (Leeper) Owens of Swenson, TX. He was a Navy Veteran of WW ll until he was honorably discharged in 1945. After serving his country he moved to Harlingen, TX. where he met the love of his life, Ernestine. They married in 1948 and were faithful companions just short of 60 years before her passing in 2007.
Gil started working for Magnolia Oil Co. now known as Exxon Mobil in Premont, Tx. In 1960 they adopted their one and only child, the apple of their eyes Deann. Gil was shortly after transferred to Wichita, Kansas. Then the family was transferred to Beaumont in 1965.
After, retiring from Exxon Mobil, Gil and Ernie joined forces with the Texas Baptist Men, building Churches for the Glory of God.
He was a member and Deacon of Amelia Baptist Church, for over 50 years. Gil was a member of Gideon International and love passing out Bibles and ministering to the students at Lamar University.
Daddy loved his “Cowboys” and would fuss if cable had the game blocked. He loved travelling, fishing, camping and I must say he would consider it “splurging” if we got a campsite by the lake.
Rest in peace daddy. This is not “goodbye” it's - see you later!
Gil is survived by his daughter Deann Nunziante, son-in-law Greg; granddaughter, Jessica Shipper; and 3 great grandsons, Braden, Gunner and Remington; sister, Dana Ray Owens; nephews, John, Dana and Steven Owens.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Ernestine; brother, Clinton Owens; and half-brother, Kenneth Hayes.
A celebration of Gil’s life will be held at 10 am on Friday, April 27th in the Claybar Kelley-Watkins Chapel. Interment, with Military Honors, will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be on Thursday April 26th, from 5-7pm at the funeral home.
Memorial donations in memory of Gil may be made to Gideon International. PO Box 7134, Beaumont, Texas, 77726-7134.
The family of Mr. Gil Owens would like give a special thanks to Sally and Rodney for the extra care and love they showed thru this trying time. We dearly appreciate all of your help.