Hank "Sam" Willie Edward Owensby, 54, passed away on Saturday, January 14, 2023 while at Atrium Healthcare Cleveland.

He was born in Cleveland County, NC to the late Willie "Big Willie" Mason and Madeline Longenecker. He is also predeceased by his step-father, Bill Thomas.

Sam leaves behind to cherish his memories his daughter, Erica Owensby Love and husband, Donnie; son, Theodore Bower and wife, Amy; step-daughter, Catherine Riley; step-son, Brandon Bennett; one grandchild; brother, Willie Mason and wife, Patricia; niece, Brittany Danielle; one great-niece; two great-nephews; caregiver, Mendy Tessneer; many other special people that he loved dearly.

He was a member of Shelby Missionary Methodist Church of Shelby. He worked at AAA Cab Company, drove cab #5, and also worked in Textiles He always carried a Chewy Granola Bar with him. He was a wonderful father, step-father, grandfather, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, great-uncle and friend. He will remain in our hearts forever.

Visitation will be held at 2:00 p.m.at Shelby Missionary Methodist Church, 1402 Earl Road, Shelby, NC 28152. Celebration of Life Service will be held at 4:00 p.m. with Rev. David Black officiating.