James "J.R" Rolland Owen

James “J.R.” Rolland Owen, 75, of Carterville, passed away Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his family.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, January 13, 2025, at Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville, with Rev. Cody Knapik officiating. Burial will be in Willowrest Cemetery in Carterville. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Monday, at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Leukemia Foundation.

J.R. was born April 16, 1949, in McLeansboro, to James Lewis and Lucille Colleen (Lance). He married Susan Kay Ebeling on June 2, 1972, in Salem. Together they shared 52 wonderful years.

He is survived by his loving wife, Susan Owen; daughter, Allison Owen; son, Casey (Lisa) Owen; grandchildren, Connor M. Pardee, Evan J. Pardee, and Tristan J. Owen; brothers, Larry Dale (Sue) Owen, and Darrell E. (Dinah) Owen; plus several nieces and nephews.

J.R. was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Julie Marie Pardee; and sister, Karen Beasley.

He honorably served our country in the United States Marine Corps.  J.R. was a truck driver for 41 years with Direct Line Inc. in Effingham. He was also a faithful member of Crainville Baptist Church, where he had served on various boards.

J.R. was a devoted husband and father who was passionate about his family, always cheering on his children and grandchildren during their various sporting events. He was a life-long St. Louis Cardinals fan and he loved listening to music of all kinds.

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