Robert Harold "Bob" Owen, 79, of Newberry, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at Prisma Richland Hospital, surrounded by loved ones.

Born on December 31, 1945, in Atlanta, Georgia, he was the son of the late Lawrence Clifton and Christine Key Owen.

Bob was known for his adventurous spirit and lifelong love of sailing. Even in his youth, he showed remarkable initiative and skill by building his own sailboat—an experience that deepened his passion for the sea and ultimately inspired him to join the United States Navy. During his fourteen years of service, he once sailed from San Francisco to Hawaii after receiving deployment orders, a journey that reflected his independence, resilience, and deep connection to the ocean.

His time in the Navy also laid the foundation for a successful career in nuclear power engineering. Bob's work took him and his family all over the world, and he played a vital role in numerous power plant startups. Locally, he contributed his expertise at the Savannah River Site.

In Newberry, Bob enjoyed attending the Senior Luncheons hosted by Newberry Parks and Recreation, where he found community and connection. He cherished time with his family—going to the movies, enjoying Tea at The Gallery, and visiting his favorite restaurants around town. In more recent years, his greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren. He especially loved playing trains and engaging in playful poking battles with his young grandson.

He is survived by his children: Eliza (Andy) Beach of Ladson, Jason Owen, and Rebecca Owen of Newberry; his grandchildren: Jazmine (Stephen) Cousino and Griffin Owen; and his brother, Norman (Linda) Owen of Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his brother, Lawrence Gerald "Jerry" Owen, and the mother of his children, Sylvia Thomas Owen.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at Whitaker Funeral Home in Newberry. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, beginning at 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Memories and messages may be shared on his tribute wall.

Whitaker Funeral Home is honored to serve the Owen family.