Harold Elmer Owen, Sr. died Monday, February 1, 2016, in Fayetteville, N.C. He was born on April 12, 1929 in Clay County, Alabama to Mamie Evans Owen and Pelzer Eugene Owen. Harold was the youngest of four siblings, all of whom preceded him in death. He was married for 65 years to Eleanor Frances Lett Owen who died on April 23, 2012.

Harold spent a major portion of his life in the United States Army, 82nd Airborne Division where he attained the rank of Sargeant Major. During his military service, he was awarded the World War II Victory Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Occupation Medal (Germany), the National Defense Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Good Conduct Medal(6 times), the Vietnam Service Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, The Bronze Star, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Dominican Republic), the National Defense Service Medal and the Army Commendation Medal (Expert).

He is survived by his daughter, Mary Owen Sotile and husband, Wayne, of Lake Norman, N.C.; his son, Hal Owen of Lillington, N.C.; five grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 6 , 2016 at Hillmon Grove Baptist Church in Cameron, N. C. Funeral service will be conducted at 3:00 p.m. following the visitation at the church with the Rev. Wayne O'Quinn officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.