Perry Oneal Owens

Perry O’Neal Owens, 62, was born on October 10, 1963 in the Pungo section of Virginia Beach, VA near Back Bay. He was born to Mattie Dawson and the late Mervin A. Owens, Sr. Perry entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at Sentara Leigh Hospital, Norfolk, VA.

Perry was educated in the Virginia Beach public school system. He loved exotic and antique cars and worked as a mechanic for over 20 years. In 2018, he furthered his education by attending the Culinary Arts Program at Tidewater Community College, Virginia Beach, VA. During this time, Perry was a recipient of the Life Skills Achievement Award. He later became a co-owner of P.O. Folks Southern Cuisine for 7 years, where he filled his passion for cooking.

Perry was a member of the Elks Lodge #38, Norfolk, VA. He enjoyed fishing and wood crafting. He proudly cheered on his beloved Dallas Cowboys – even when they stressed him out. No matter where he went, he was guaranteed to have a joke ready and took great joy in making folks laugh.

Perry was predeceased by his father, Merlin Owens; brothers, Ricky Owens, Merlin Owens, Jr. and grandmother.

Perry leaves to forever hold his memory close, his beloved daughters, Benika Hall, Kanika Johnson, Marleka Johnson-Greenhow; grandchildren, Kal-El, Brian, Desmond, Corwin, Jordin, Maya, Merlin; mother, Mattie Dawson; siblings, Keith, Irish, Donnie, Darryl, Lisa; devoted fiancée, Keia Charity; stepson, Keyan Charity; cousin, Charles Griffin; best friend, Eric Pfeifer; and in addition to countless extended family and friends whose lives he touched.