Phillip Dewitt Owens

Phillip Dewitt Owens, an extraordinary cowboy, and loving family man, has saddled up and ridden off into the sunset. Born in Chico, California on March 6th, 1943, he spent a glorious 80 years roping, joking, and spreading joy before his last ride on November 15th, 2023, in Longview, Texas.

Phillip's life was anything but ordinary. His skills as a farrier were unmatched, but it was his talent in team roping that turned heads. Competing in rodeos and team roping events for USTRC, LRCA, UPRA, NARC, and TRSA. His rodeo days were rewarded in 2022 when he was inducted into the LRCA Hall Of Fame for team roping, a testament to his talent and dedication. His passion for team roping was matched only by his love for his horse, KC. They were a dream team, a dynamic duo, a perfect pair. Phillip, with his quick hands and quicker wit, earned the nickname PDQ - Pretty Damn Quick. Together, they stormed the rodeo circuit, winning titles, and respect. Phillip's charismatic presence, coupled with his knack for making people laugh, made him a favorite at every event.

When he wasn't roping or shoeing horses, Phillip enjoyed the simpler pleasures of life. He loved boating and fishing on Caddo Lake. He was never one to pass up a good conversation, or a plate of great food. His wife, Paula, was his biggest cheerleader, with Phillip returning the favor by cheering her on at barrel races with an enthusiastic "Come on, Baby!".

Described best as funny, friendly, and loving, Phillip was a man who could light up a room with his laughter and fill it with warmth with his love. He was a friend to all, a stranger to none, and a cowboy at heart. He rode through life with a smile on his face and a joke at the ready, leaving behind a trail of laughter and love.

Phillip is survived by his loving wife, Paula Owens, and his son Chris Johnson and his children Stillman Johnson and Zach Johnson, his daughter Tiffany Duhon and her husband Darrell Duhon and their son Dax Duhon, his daughter Jayci Simon and her husband Cody Simon and their children Trevor Simon and Rylee Simon and his step-daughter Janna Beam Brown and her husband Jody Brown and their son Jake Brown. He also leaves behind his sister, Gail Hartley, and his brothers, Daniel Owens, David Owens, and John Owens. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Donald Owens and Ronald Owens, and his parents, Versie Owens, and Bethel Owens.

Friends and family will gather for a time of visitation on Monday, November 20, 2023 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. in the Garden Court of Welch Funeral Home. A Life Celebration funeral service will be held on Tuesday, November 21, 2023 in the chapel of Welch Funeral Home.

In the rodeo of life, Phillip Dewitt Owens was a true champion. He may have taken his last ride, but his spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew him. Phillip lived life at full gallop, loved with all his heart, and laughed like there was no tomorrow. Rope as many as you want Cowboy, your fees have been paid.