On September 8, 2025, our beloved Earl Owens Jr., lovingly referred to as “Papa Earl” by his grandkids, Kaya, Kori, Jayla, and Keahi, passed away with the love of his life, our mom, Kimberly, by his side.

After retiring, Earl and Mom built their dream home and were looking forward to enjoying it together. Earl and Mom were best friends, and she loved him dearly. One of their favorite things to do was take trips to Las Vegas for Bingo. They made it to Las Vegas on September 7, 2025, anticipating a weekend of Bingo and fun as they always did, but heartbreakingly, Earl didn’t make it to Bingo in the morning.

Papa Earl lived a life to be proud of, and we are so proud of him. He served in the U.S. Navy and later served 24 years with TSA as a Transportation Security Manager in both Maui, Hawaiʻi, and San Francisco, California, where he made the greatest of friends, many of whom he considered family. He loved life and especially loved watching NASCAR, collecting watches, birdwatching at his new home, and FaceTiming and laughing with grandchildren and loved ones all the time.

What we’ll always remember most is the way he loved us and our mom with all his heart. He was the kindest, most humble, and giving man. To us, he was Mom’s best friend, the greatest Papa, and a father figure who showed us unconditional love every single day. To others, he was a great friend, mentor, and brother. We will miss his laughter, jokes, and the happiness he brought our mom and our family.

The funds raised will help ease some of the immediate financial burdens mom is facing at this moment in time, including bringing Papa Earl home from Las Vegas to North Carolina so he can rest in peace surrounded by people who love him. We want to give our mom the space to grieve, to get things situated, honor his memory, and begin finding her way in this new and difficult chapter of life

If you’re able to donate, no matter the amount, we’re so grateful. Sharing this page helps more than you know. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all the love and support during this difficult time.

—Karmann, Chloe, and Royal