James Owens

A memorial service celebrating James’s life will be held on April 26, 2025 at Forest Lawn Mortuary in Covina Hills from 10am - 1pm family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of his remarkable journey and enduring legacy.

If you are unable to join us, we would love if you could attend virtually. See the zoom link below: Commemorating James

https://us04web.zoom.us/j/2496054194?pwd=b2FxYm5JaTNRNWo5YXlWSmNkRU9aQT09

Meeting ID: 249 605 4194

Passcode: 3UU8pg

Slideshow: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGlmD47ob8/R3-YZZTryk02wjVy3QCg3Q/edit?utm_content=DAGlmD47ob8&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton

With deep sadness, we announce the passing of James Bankston Owens, who departed this life on March 17, 2025 at the age of 76. A devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend, James was a man of wisdom, resilience, and an insatiable curiosity that left an impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Born on September 27, 1948, in Chicago, IL, James dedicated much of his life to craftsmanship and innovation. He began his career as a machinist with Santa Fe Railroad in Chicago, IL, later rising to the role of railroad yard master, in San Bernardino, CA where his leadership and expertise were widely respected. Beyond the railroad, James made history as one of the first African Americans to contribute to the construction of Ford Motor Company’s Golden Rod, a legendary vehicle now housed in the Henry Ford Museum in Michigan.

A man with a passion for understanding how things worked, James found joy in taking things apart just to figure out how to rebuild them—better than before. His love for music was just as profound, finding inspiration in the lyrics and melodies that spoke to his soul, with Nancy Wilson holding a special place in his heart.

James’s greatest source of pride was his family. He is survived by his daughter, Collette Leavelle (William), and his son, Joseph Owens. He was a proud grandfather to Danielle Leavelle, Avery Owens, Mya Owens, Mia Owens, and Joseph Owens, Jr. James also leaves behind his beloved siblings: Joseph Phillip Owens III, Carolyn Jones (Ronald), Charles Owens, Mariann Owens, Giselle Owens, Janice Owens, Teri Owens, Patricia Owens and Thomas Owens, who will forever cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Phillip Owens and Cleotha Owens, as well as his brother Joseph Phillip Owens, Jr., sister Carolyn Jones.

Though James has departed from this world, his spirit, love, and ingenuity will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. May he rest in eternal peace.