Known affectionately as Ms. Robiezine, Rob, or Bob by her friends and family, Aunt Bob by her many nieces and nephews, and she was endearingly called Punkin Boo by her grandchildren. Her most cherished name, Princess, was reserved for her beloved husband, Elvin "Buddy Love" Owens.
In her early years, she grew up on a farm, where she could work alongside the best of them. She was also an active member of Stranger's Rest AME Church in Cornersville. Robiezine was both a scholar and an athlete. She graduated from Lincoln High School in Star City, AR, in 1954, and was known for her basketball skills. She and her sister, Jolean O'Neal, were a formidable pair on the court, with Robiezine's showcasing her mean crossover move consistently tripping up her opponents.
After high school, she spent a year at Shorter College in Little Rock, taking business and secretarial courses. However, in 1955, she chose to settle down in Monticello.
Shortly after moving to Monticello, she joined First Missionary Baptist Church in Monticello, becoming a devoted member. She actively participated in various church ministries, including serving as a choir member, where her sweet soprano voice could soothe any troubled spirit. She was also a powerful choir director for many years and an active member of the program committee and women's ministry.
Robiezine was also one of the founding members of the Junior Women's (Black) Civic Club which was started in 1957. Their mission was to help, support, and uplift the community, such as preparing meals and providing clothes for disadvantaged children and youth. Under the leadership of Mary F. Lomax, the club was renamed, The Mary F. Lomax Civic Club. Robiezine held the positions of President, Secretary, and Hospitality Committee Chair. She served all those years alongside her best friend and sister, Jolean O'neal.
Robiezine was renowned for her warmth and kindness, frequently greeting others with a cheerful ''Hey baby, how you doing?'' or a supportive ''You go girl.'' Conversations with her often imparted valuable life lessons or left people laughing at her witty comments. She had a unique talent for brightening others' lives.
Well-known as the local funeral home guru, Robiezine dedicated her entire career to the funeral home industry. She worked at Henderson Funeral Home for over 40 years, and after its closure, she took her talents to Christian Brothers Funeral Home and Paradise Funeral Home in Monticello. She was truly dedicated to serving others in their time of need and she spent many years as a member of the Funeral Directors' Association. After over 50 years of service, Robiezine decided to retire and spend more time serving in the community and her church.
Robiezine met the love of her life, Elvin "Buddy Love" Owens, in the summer of 1952 at the Drew County Fair. Their fateful meeting led to a lifelong union, and three years later, they were married on August 3, 1955. Their union produced three children; Rozine, Elvin Jr., and Toni. Robiezine and Buddy Love shared 67 years together until his passing in September 2022.
Above all, she loved her family with all her heart and she will be deeply missed by her surviving relatives, including her son Elvin ''Little Buddy'' Owens Jr. (Deborah) of Silver Spring, MD, and her youngest daughter, Dr. Toni ''Shirley Temple'' Brown (Craig) of Frisco, TX. Her legacy also includes eight grandchildren; Dr. Tremikae ''Mickey Mouse'' Owens-Henderson (James), Elvin ''Bud'' Owens, Jovanni ''Sisco'' Owens (Jasmine), Ryan Owens, Jamie ''Pretty Eyes'' Owens, Taelor ''Angel'' Pickett, Willy ''Joe Louis'' Pegues V, and Omare ''Pretty Boy'' Pittman; and seven great-grandchildren.
She is also survived by her three sisters, Lena Mae Edwards (Grover - deceased), Shirley White (Albert Sr - deceased), and Pearl Copeland, all of Kansas City, KS; her three brothers, Larry Gragg Sr (Bettye) of Monticello, AR, Wayne Gragg (Artie) of Malvern, AR, and Henry Gragg of Rio Vista, CA; her brother-in-law, Donald Stewart (Gracie) of Monticello; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, neighbors, and former colleagues.
She is proceeded in death by her husband, Elvin ''Buddy Love'' Owens; her daughter, Rozine Owens; her parents, John and Iwilda Gragg; her two brothers, John Elvin Gragg (Ann), John Thomas Gragg (Effie); and two sisters, Bennie Jean Smith (Wesley) and Jolean O'neal (Cleophis).
Robiezine's absence will be deeply felt. Her infectious laugh, witty one-liners, stylish church attire - always complemented by a chic wig and hat, genuine love and care for others, dedicated community service, and unwavering devotion to our Lord and Savior will be sorely missed.
Rest In Peace
Funeral services will be Saturday, July 27, 2024, at First Baptist Church, 546 N Bailey Street in Monticello at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Oakland Cemetery in Monticello, AR. You can sign Robiezine's guestbook here on her page.
Condolences(17)
Elizabeth Ann Gragg-Strain
Los Angeles, CA Saturday, July 27, 2024 I was so sorry to hear of Aunt Robi's death. Too many years have passed since I last saw auntie Robi. It's at times like these that we often regret not having kept in touch. However, the memories that I have of her are very special and dear to me. My sincere heartfelt condolences to the rest of the family during this difficult time. I pray that God will give you the peace and comfort that only He can give!Auntie, hopefully, we will meet again in Heaven. Until then...Rest in peace!!
tommy r shaw
Galt, CA Saturday, July 27, 2024 sending my condolencesMary Gragg
McGehee, AR Saturday, July 27, 2024 From the moment I married into the family, Mrs Owens treated me as if she’s been knowing forever & always hugged & kiss me on my cheek & would say I love u. I never forget U. RIL Mrs Owens & sincere condolences to the family🙏🏾Janneaha Woods
Conroe, TX Saturday, July 27, 2024 I love you Aunt Bob. I always willMrs. Ethel Mae Johnson
Flint, MI Friday, July 26, 2024 Mrs. Ethel Mae Johnson Sorry to hear of Robiezine passing .praying for the family May God bless you during this time ❤️. The Johnson(Gray) family.
Elvin Owens
Lawton, OK Friday, July 26, 2024 My grandmother was a jewel sent straight from Heaven. As a child, she introduced me to God and good grades (school) :). Her devotion and love to our family was unparalleled, and she is forever-impactful to my life. May she enjoy her eternal rest, as she now lives in the presence of the Lord.Michelle Handley
Monticello, AR Friday, July 26, 2024 Thank you for always being so kind and loving towards me. You and Mr Buddy would always make my day with my bag lunches(pork chop sandwich, fruit, and a can pop), You will truly be missed here on the other side of the mountain sweet Angel... May you take your Rest in PEACE & LOVE!! Praying for all whom will miss you dearly. GOD IS LOVEMary Gonder Caldwell
Benbrook,, TX Friday, July 26, 2024 I send my sincere condolences to the Gragg and Owen's families. That beautiful smile will never be forgotten. Rest in love my cousin.Sarah Allene Jones
Los Angeles, CA Friday, July 26, 2024 The Dunlap family would like to express our sincere condolences over the loss of your loved one. As a new mother waits for the arrival of her newborn child, so our Heavenly Father has waited for his daughter, and now she is in his arms. We pray knowing this will help comfort your hearts during this sad time over the loss of your mother, sister, cousin and friend. God Bless You All!!Bob Brooke
Conway, AR Friday, July 26, 2024 Thoughts and prayers are with the family. Always enjoyed our visits. Her memories will live on in the hearts of all those lives she touched.Brenda Binns
MONTICELLO, AR Friday, July 26, 2024 Lifting the family up in prayer. I have so many precious memories of her and aunt Jolean. Love you all. The memories will last a lifetime.Linnie & Jay Edwards
McKinney, TX Thursday, July 25, 2024 I am so deeply sadness to hear of the loss of your mother. Mrs. Rob was such a beautiful & lovely person. My deepest condolences & prayers are with your family.Fran Henry & Horace Simpson
BURKE VA, VA Wednesday, July 24, 2024 My sincerest condolences to the entire family and especially to my best coworker Mr O.May the beautiful memories of your mom hug you and offer you some small measure of comfort and peace.
May she rest in peace.
Fran & Horace
Lou Ann Christian-Coutee
Crown Point, IN Wednesday, July 24, 2024 I am Deeply Saddened to hear of your loss. Sending you strength to get through this difficult time. Word cannot express how deeply sorry I am for your loss you and your family will be in my prayers.THE CHRISTIAN AND COUTEE FAMILY
Lou Ann Christian-Coutee
Crown Point, IN Wednesday, July 24, 2024 I am Deeply Saddened to hear of your loss. Sending you strength to get through this difficult time. Word cannot express how deeply sorry I am for your loss you and your family will be in my prayers.THE CHRISTIAN AND COUTEE FAMILY
Sallie calbert
Monticello Ar, AR Tuesday, July 23, 2024 My friend, my cousin, going to miss your beautiful smile and all the grown folks conversation we had , if only walls could talk. Love u and will treasure all the memories.Melanie Rawls
Monticello, AR Monday, July 22, 2024 Eartha has not sorry heaven can’t heal. Prayers for your strength during now and days to come