Emily Bernice Owen

On July 13, 2026, at the age of 90, Emily Bernice Owen peacefully passed away at Haywood Regional Medical Center. Born to Julius and Grace Sheffield Welch in Canton, NC, she lived a life rich with love and wisdom.

She is survived by her beloved daughters, Andrea Gibson Mann (James) of Canton and Ardis Campbell (Charles) of Bethel. Her family circle also includes her half-sister Shirley Welch of Advance, NC, and her half-brother Charles Welch (Elaine) of Waynesville.

Her legacy endures through her cherished grandchildren: Anthony A. Gibson, Alan G. Ottaviano (Brian Ottaviano), Shawn Bell (Clifford), and Mara Bartholomew (Rob). Her great-grandchildren, Alexis, Aidan, Scarlett, Piper-Anne, Xavier Gibson, Kiera Grace, Robby Bartholomew, Cameron, and Gavin Bell, were her pride and joy.

A devoted follower of the Methodist faith, she also found joy in all sports—especially cheering for the North Carolina Tarheels basketball team. Her love for reading romance novels brought her comfort and delight.

Described as precious, loving, caring, and intelligent, she imparted a legacy of honesty and integrity to her daughters, guiding them to always ask, "What would Mama do?" Her adoration for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren was boundless, and she treasured every moment spent with them.

In loving memory, we celebrate a remarkable woman who touched all our lives with her warmth and wisdom.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 16 from 12:00 noon to 1:00 pm at Wells Funeral Home in Canton. The graveside funeral service will follow at 1:30 at Crawford / Ray Memorial Gardens with Pastor James Marsh officiating.

The care of Mrs. Owen has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Canton.