Bernice Jordan Owens, 88, of Hamlet, passed away Saturday, Jan. 13, 2024 at FirstHealth Hospice House, Pinehurst.
She was born Sept. 10, 1935, in Wilmington, North Carolina, daughter of the late Emmett Smith Jordan Sr. and Mollie Watkins Jordan.
In her earlier years, Bernice worked in textiles while raising her sons on her own. She went on to become an entrepreneur in the clothing business with Gent’s Outlet in Hamlet. She, along with her husband, also owned and operated Bill’s Records and Bill Bilt Auto Parts on Hamlet Avenue. She continued Bill Bilt even after her husband’s passing in 2007.
She was a strong-willed, determined lady that cared about the City of Hamlet. She was very instrumental in the community, especially being involved with the beautification of Hamlet Avenue and downtown Hamlet. She was an active member of the Hamlet Business Association, Hamlet Women’s Club, and the Hamlet Tree and Beautification Group.
Bernice also loved yardwork. She enjoyed raking and mowing grass, as well as flowering and gardening. Some of her favorite hobbies were fishing and clamming. She loved her family and will be dearly missed by everyone who knew and loved her.
Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Billy Grover Owens; brother, Bernie Jordan; and sisters, Sue Garner, Janie Inman and Alliene Morrison.
Bernice is survived by her sons, Eric Kimbel Musgrove (Terry Barrett) of Rockingham and Jeffrey Musgrove (Jennifer) of Bahama, N.C.; grandson, Michael Musgrove of Bahama; brother, Emmett Jordan Jr. (Christa) of Campobello, South Carolina; sister, Wilma Spencer (Chuck) of Ellerbe; and many loving nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024 at Place of Grace Church, Rockingham, beginning at 2 p.m. with Pastor Alex Perakis officiating.
Memorials may be made to: Place of Grace, 252 School St., Rockingham, NC 28379.
Harrington Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the Owens family.
Online condolences may be made at harringtonfuneralhome.com.
NOTE: Time of funeral has been changed.
