Obituary of Deacon Lester Joseph Owens

Lester Joseph Peter Owens—affectionately known as Les—a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at the age of 88.

Born on May 16, 1936, in Brooklyn, New York, Lester was the beloved son of Lester J. Owens and Evelyn Lewis. His father passed away when he was just a small child, and his mother later remarried George Dotson, who helped shape Lester’s upbringing.

From a young age, Lester’s determination and talent were evident. He attended St. Francis Prep High School, where he was a standout athlete, and a member of the 4x800 relay team that broke the National High School Record in 1955. He continued his education at St. Francis College on a track scholarship—perhaps destiny, as his cousin was the legendary Jesse Owens—and earned a B.S. in Mathematics.

In 1956, Lester married Loretta Jennings, and together they raised three children until her passing in 1971. Lester’s journey led him to Agatha Barbara Owens, whom he married in 1975. Together, they blended their families, creating a loving home for six children, later welcoming their youngest daughter, Kelly, making their family complete.

Lester built a distinguished career in technology and defense, working with Systems Development Corporation on critical military projects, including SACCS (Strategic Air Command Control System) and ASW (Anti-Submarine Warfare), among others, in collaboration with Bell Laboratories. He retired in 1998 as a Systems Engineer Manager at AT&T, having contributed to some of the most sophisticated defense systems of his time.

A man of deep faith, Lester answered a higher calling and was ordained a Deacon in 1994, serving faithfully at St. Gabriel’s Roman Catholic Church. His dedication to his faith extended to his service as a 4th Degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus, embodying a life of integrity and devotion.

Lester is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, A. Barbara Owens, and his beloved children: Lester Owens III (Barbara), Angelene Turner (Freeman), James Thaxton (Benedicta), Mark Thaxton (Elena), Doreen Thaxton, Kelly Allen, and Angel Long (Edward). He was predeceased by his son, Michael Owens, his grandson, Terrance McIntyre, and his granddaughter, Victoria Thaxton. His legacy lives on in his 24 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, who will forever cherish his wisdom, warmth, and humor.

Beyond his professional and spiritual life, Lester was an avid handball player and an adventurous cyclist, often riding from Brooklyn to Long Island’s beaches, simply for the love of the journey. His playful nature was legendary—he was a master of pranks, always bringing joy to those around him. His grandchildren will forever hear his iconic phrase, “No noise,” only to erupt into laughter moments later.

Lester’s kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith left an indelible mark on all who knew him. He was a pillar of St. Gabriel’s Church, offering a warm smile and a compassionate heart to everyone he met. His legacy of love, faith, and resilience will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known him.

Rest in peace, Lester J. Owens. You will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

Services will be held at St. Gabriel’s RC Church, 1 West Main Street, Marlboro, NJ 07746.
 

Wake – St. Gabriels Church from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Monday, February 24, 2025

Mass – St. Gabriel’s Church at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, February 25, 2025. Entombment to follow.

Repass – St. Gabriel’s Church Hall