William "Tooter Bill" Owens

It is with heavy hearts and fond memories that we announce Friday, July 14, 2023, Pastor William Thomas Owens, Jr., affectionately known as "Tooter Bill” answered the call of the Lord one last time. Pastor Owens was a true man of God, whose unwavering faith and dedication to serving the Lord touched the lives of countless individuals.

For over five decades, Brother Owens faithfully answered the call to ministry, with an astounding 45 of those years spent shepherding the congregation of Mount Pleasant Freewill Baptist Church. It is worth noting that year after year, he was elected by the deacons and congregation to remain as the head pastor, a testament to the love and respect he earned from his community.

Beyond his pastoral duties, William “Daddy Bill” cherished his family above all else. His wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were his greatest joy, and he treasured every moment spent in their company. He led by example, teaching the values of love, kindness, and togetherness that he held so dear.

William had a big heart that extended to all of God’s creatures, but particularly dogs. He would go to great lengths to assist anyone in need, he would even offer the shirt off his back. In his younger days, he found joy in coon hunting, relishing the thrill of working with his beloved Black and White Walkers. He would often travel down to “dog days” on Mondays in Ardmore, enjoying that particular flea market.

Throughout his life, Pastor Owens carried himself with confidence and kindness, embodying the love of Christ in every interaction. He spread that love wherever he went, touching lives, bringing comfort, and inspiring hope. His presence in the Mount Pleasant community was a beacon of light, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him.

William is survived by his wife of 64 years: Billie Jean Grooms Owens; Timmy (Merri) Owens and Lynn (Mike) Owens Wade; grandchildren: Allen (Ashley) Owens, Jessica Mae (Adam) Holt, Wayne (Lisa) Owens, and Kelsey (Jeffrey) Hunt; 10 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law: Shelby Owens and Anne Owens; several nieces, nephews, and cousins. William is preceded in death by his daughter-in-law – Mary Ferguson Owens and siblings: George Butler Owens, Lucille Vick, Christine Parker, Leroy Owens, Robert Owens, Mary Owens Castille, and Buddy Owens.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at Williams Funeral Home in Mount Pleasant, Tennessee from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at Mount Pleasant Freewill Baptist Church Wednesday, July 19, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Rusty Lincoln officiating, with additional speakers being Bro. Danny Grooms and Bro J.C. Hoss Holt, Jr. William Owens will be “Planted” in the Arbors of Polk Memorial Gardens in Columbia, Tennessee where he will rise again.