John "Johnny" Owens, Jr.

John J “Papa-San” Owens, Jr.  Second Lined into the pearly gates of heaven on May 20, 2023, at the age of 74.

He is proceeded in death by his parents, John J. Sr. and Anna Burke Owens, and his siblings Patricia, Judy, and Terry Owens.

He is survived by his siblings, Mary O Spiess (Bill) and brother, Richard S. Owens; nieces Sarah Owens, Kelly Owens, and Jennifer Spiess of Lone Tree, CO; Nephews Michael Owens (Megan), Quinn Owens (Crystal) and Sean Spiess of Lafayette, LA; and numerous friends, relatives, and godchildren.

Upon graduating from St. Louis King of France and Rummel High School, Johnny was drafted into the army. During the Vietnam War, he served in Okinawa, Japan, earning the nickname “Papa-San.”  Upon his return, he graduated from the University of New Orleans and joined the family ready-mix business, Owens & Sons, Inc.  He then earned an MBA from Tulane University. 

Papa-San was a true New Orleanian. A long-time member of the Krewe of Thoth, marching in all the St. Patrick’s parades and a loyal supporter of Tulane Athletics, having served as an officer and Hall of Fame inductee for the Green Backers Club.  He was an avid reader, hunter, and fan of Korean Soap Operas. 

As a man of true integrity, Johnny would never go back on his word. A man with simple taste of jeans and cowboy boots, he enjoyed being with his friends and family. If he was not hunting, you could find him enjoying the company of friends at local neighborhood bars and Irish Pubs.

In these last few years, a new nickname was given to Johnny. On the weekends, he would drop off donuts to his great-nephews – Taran, Killian, Rowan, and Reese – hence earning the name “Donut Lord.”

We have lost a kind and loving soul.  His family would like to thank the third-floor nurses at Ochsner Rehabilitation Hospital, St. Catherine’s Hospice, and Forest Manor Nursing Home.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Louisiana Wildlife & Fisheries to promote conservation efforts. http://www.lawff.org/donate-now

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation at Greenwood Funeral Home, 5200 Canal Blvd, New Orleans, on Monday, June 5, 2023, starting at 10:00 AM, followed by Catholic Services at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery. 

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