Funeral services for Mr. Willie Owens, 79, of Orangeburg, SC, will be held 11:00am, Friday, July 25, 2025, at Simmons Funeral Home and Crematory Chapel, 2868 Columbia Road, Orangeburg, with interment to follow at Belleville Memorial Garden.

Let the Life I Live Speak for Me — Willie Owens, known as “Big Will” to family and friends was the oldest of six boys born to the late Prezzie Owens, Jr. and Mary Lee Washington on April 18, 1946. He entered into eternal rest on Friday, July 18, 2025 at MUSC Health of Orangeburg.

Willie served our country in the Vietnam War and later obtained his GED from Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College.

Willie was married to Katie Owens for over 50 years of partnership, friendship and dedication with each other. He enjoyed driving truck, riding motorcycles and spending time with his family.

Willie drove truck for JT Bozard Trucking for over 10 years and also worked for C&D Building Supply for a number of years. He fought a good fight of faith, kept his eyes on the Lord and stated that “he was ready to go home”.

Willie leaves to cherish fond memories: his wife, Katie Owens, of the home; three daughters, Tandra (Rodney) Busby, Debbie Hanton, and Yvette (Tyrone) Snell; two sons, RaNard Owens, and Willie (Crystal) Hanton; eleven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; three brothers, Leroy Owens, Pop, and Myron Washington; one sister, Marlene; along with other family and friends.

Mr. Owens passed away Friday, July 18, 2025, at MUSC Health-Orangeburg.

Public viewing will be held Thursday, July 24, 2025, from 12-6pm.

Family and friends may call Simmons Funeral Home and Crematory of Orangeburg.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.simmonsfuneralhome.com