James Ownby

JAMES EARL OWNBY Feb. 6, 1948 to Dec. 9, 2010 James Earl Ownby was called home to God on December 9, 2010, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. Jimmy, as he was lovingly referred to by his family and friends, was one of six children, born to Earl and Masie Ownby on February 6, 1948 in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. He was raised in Tennessee and later left to enlist in the United States Navy. After serving in the Navy and the National Guard, he started his 40 year career for the United States Postal Service. Jimmy's love for family and his devotion to his southern roots were evident in his daily life. He was a loyal son, brother, husband, father and friend. He was a "Tennessee Vols" fan who never missed a game. Jimmy was preceded in death by his brother, Ronnie Ownby; his mother, Masie Ownby, and his sister, Patricia McCarter. He is survived by his wife, Karen; his sons, Jordan, age 22, Elory, age 13, Ethan, age 9; his daughter, Bianca, age 15, all of Chico, CA; his father, Earl Ownby; his sisters, Brenda Stout and Susan Ownby of Sevierville, TN; his brother, Craig (and Rose) Ownby of Knoxville, TN. Jimmy will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him. A Celebration of his life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 26, 2010 at the Trinity United Methodist Church, 285 East 5th Street in Chico. In lieu of flowers, contributions are suggested to The American Cancer Society , 754 Mangrove Ave, Chico, CA 95926, www.cancer.org.