Mary Frances Owen, of Huntsville, passed away Monday, July 21, 2025 at the age of 91.
Born in Wauchula, FL, Mary earned a bachelor’s degree from Florida State University and a master’s degree from the University of Florida.
While a student at Florida State, Mary was selected to be a high wire artist in the FSU Flying High Circus. She was also a majorette for the Seminoles when she began dating Thomas Owen Jr., the center on the football team. They married in 1953 and spent 69 years together until his death in 2022.
They moved their family to Huntsville when Tom was recommended by Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant for the head coaching position at Huntsville High School. Mary began teaching 4th grade at Jones Valley Elementary School where she retired 37 years later after helping raise hundreds of children. She also loved being a “mom” to all of Tom’s football players.
Mary was an active member of First Baptist Church and an avid tennis player and Florida State fan. For many years, she enjoyed volunteering at church with the adult special needs program and at Burritt Museum.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and her brother, Bobby Joiner.
She is survived by her sons, Thomas Owen III (Debbie) and Tighe Owen (Pam); “adopted” sons, Chuck Cooper (Debbie) and Mike Forehand (Frances); grandchildren, Ashley Owen, Dr. Mathew Owen (Molly), Tighe Owen, Jr., and Dr. Callie Owen; great grandchildren, Sadie Hill, Owen Hill, Thomas Owen, Henry Owen and Eleanor Owen and by her beloved cat, Ivy.
Visitation will be from 10:00 – 11:30 am Friday, July 25, 2025 in the chapel at First Baptist Church. The funeral service will follow at 11:30 am with Dr. Travis Collins officiating. Burial will be in Maple Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801.
