He served four years in the United States Air Force, and just a few days after returning home he met Gwendolyn Haisty, who would later become his wife. They were married on June 17, 1956 and had two daughters, Phyllis and Lesley. They built their family home in Selma, Arkansas.
He was a brick mason for many years, and in 1971, he joined the University of Arkansas at Monticello as a carpenter. After 25 years, he retired as Director of UAM's Physical Plant. He was a Methodist, and served through the years in different capacities such as Chairman of the Board, Sunday School teacher, and a member of the United Methodist Men. He would always look forward to the Laymen's Retreat at Camp Tanako.
His most enjoyable hobby was woodcraft and design. Many people, including his family, benefited throughout the years from his creative talent and enjoyed the various gifts they received from him.
Family members who have preceded him in death were his parents; three brothers; Glen Stanford and wife Marion, Carol Stanford, Roy Stanford and wife Corinna; one sister, Doris Taylor and husband Norton; his father and mother-in-law, Jessie Brooks Haisty and Inez Barrett Haisty; two brothers-in-law; Kelly Henderson and Bill Grant; a sister-in-law, Barbara Haisty; and a niece, Donna Massanelli.
Owen is survived by his wife, Gwendolyn Haisty Stanford; daughter, Phyllis Mosley and husband Towny, daughter, Lesley Robertson and husband James; four grandchildren, Stan Mosley and wife Courtney, Kaitlyn Walthall, Kristen Weigand and husband Matthew, and Lainey Walthall; two great-grandsons, Lleyton Weigand and Tate Mosley; one brother, Paul Stanford and wife Betty Lee; one sister, Florence Henderson; sister-in-law, Betty Stanford; brother-in-law, Barry Haisty; sister-in-law, Linda Wisdom; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 7, 2018 at Stephenson-Dearman Chapel with burial to follow in Selma Cemetery. Online guestbook at www.stephensondearman.com.
Condolences(12)
Don Ross
Zachary, LA Monday, April 2, 2018 Gwen, I am so sorry to read of Owen's passing. Our prayers are with you and Owen.Marie Everett
Monticello, AR Tuesday, March 13, 2018 Sorry to hear of your loss. To the family, have faith in God, trust that he will give you strength each day.Steve Davis
Little Rock, AR Wednesday, March 7, 2018 Phyllis and Leslie,Just wanted to let you know you are being thought of and prayed for. Haven't seen you in years, but you are still a part of my heart. Nothing can take the place of a loved one,but keep praying.
Stacey Hill Owens
, AR Wednesday, March 7, 2018 To the family,So sorry for you loss. Prayer's for you all.
Jere Johnston
MONTICELLO, AR Wednesday, March 7, 2018 So sorry to hear about Owen.Family is in my prayers.
June Brixie
Monticello, AR Wednesday, March 7, 2018 Dear family so sorry for your loss prayers for all of you.Annette Watson
Selma, AR Wednesday, March 7, 2018 So sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Stanford. Prayers for all the family.Nickie Owens
Wilmar, AR Wednesday, March 7, 2018 Just wanted the family know how much I thought of Mr. Owen!! After I graduated high school I would bump into him at Walmart and we would stand and visit! Our familiy’s thoughts and prayers are with you!!Gloria Ryburn
Monticello, TX Tuesday, March 6, 2018 Gwen I was so sorry to hear of your loss Prayers for you and familymary lou cooper
monticello, AR Tuesday, March 6, 2018 he was the best boss at u.a.m. god bless him!!!!!Janice Gladden Wiggam
HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE, AR Tuesday, March 6, 2018 Gwen & family,I am so sorry to hear about Owen's death. He was a wonderful Christian man and loved by all who knew him. May God comfort you and give you peace. We must cherish the wonderful memories of our loved ones. Dale and I are praying for you all.
With love & sympathy,
Janice
Dorothy Glover
monticello, AR Monday, March 5, 2018 Sorry for your loss Reginald and Glover