Samuel ''Sam'' Matheson Owen, 88, of Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, passed away Thursday, February 27, 2014 of esophageal cancer.

Sam was the only child of Mary Feimster Owen and Oscar Lloyd Owen. He was born March 10, 1925 in Taylorsville, North Carolina. He was a proud graduate of NC State University with a Degree in Aeronautical Engineering. His college career was interrupted by World War II. He proudly served his country in the Army in the South Pacific and Germany until he was discharged in 1953.

His career in insurance began with Atlantic Life Insurance Company and was fulfilled with his partnership in Proctor-Owen Insurance Agency of Roanoke Rapids, NC. He retired from the insurance business and began work with Wilkie Real Estate in 1994. He enjoyed working there and was honored for 40 years of service with the Realtor Emeritus Award. Sam was active in Scouting and was an Eagle Scout. He served in many professional and civic organizations. Sam always enjoyed his time at the many meetings, selling raffle tickets and the good food and friendships. He was known for his poem writing for the many occasions of his family and friends.

Mr. Owen was predeceased by his wives, Frances Warner Owen in 1978 and Marshall Rightmyer Owen in 2013. He is survived by his children, Langdon Owen, Matt Owen, Marynell Owen Gehrke and husband, Ed; stepson, David Rightmyer and his wife, Carolyn. He is also survived by Dr. Jordi Pufol Mora, a Costa Rican foreign exchange student of many years ago, who became like another son to him. Mr. Owen had five grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, 2:00 p.m., March 1 at First Presbyterian Church of Roanoke Rapids, NC 27870 with Reverend Joe Sandovil officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service in the Loy Memorial Building. A private interment was held prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 16 E. 5th Street, Roaonoke Rapids, NC 27870 or Union Mission, 1310 Roanoke Avenue, Roanoke Rapids, NC 27870.