Cecil Max Owenby

On the morning of Saturday, August 9, 2025, Cecil Max Owenby, age 91, of Marion, passed away at Frye Regional Medical Center.

A native of McDowell County, Cecil was born September 20, 1933 to the late Christopher Eli Owenby and Fannie Elizabeth Crawley Owenby.

Cecil worked in the grocery business his entire life. He formerly owned and operated Big Bonus as well as Owenby’s Food Mart with the help of his brother Paul. Cecil dedicated sixteen years of service to the citizens of Marion through his service on the Marion City Council. His businesses and honorable service with the Council led to many friendships over the years.

A member of First United Methodist Church, Cecil served as a Sunday School teacher for many years. In his spare time, he enjoyed following Cincinnati Reds baseball and North Carolina State University basketball. He grew a large garden each year and often gave away the fruits of his labor to family, friends, and neighbors. He cherished his family and loved them wholeheartedly.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret Anne Godfrey Owenby; son, Eric Todd Owenby; five brothers; four sisters; and his dear companion, Jean Mackey.

He is survived by three children, Cecilia Owenby Stewart (William), Jeffrey Scott Owenby, and Joshua Kent Owenby, and two grandchildren, Erica Owenby and Townsend Stewart.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m. at Beam Funeral Service. The funeral service will begin at 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Freddie Williams officiating. Entombment will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery.

Flowers are accepted.