Norman "Butch" Owens

Norman “Butch” Owens, 79, of Lula, Ga, passed away on Thursday, December 19, 2024.

 Butch was born in Summerville, Alabama, to Norman and Vivian Owens. From a remarkably early age, Butch showed a unique talent for music; performing professionally as a musician from the age of fifteen. Starting in local bars and clubs, Butch would eventually make his way to the main stage. Playing with notable acts such as Patsy Cline, Percy Sledge, and The Animals. He was well known in the Muscle Shoals music community. Butch’s most famous gig found him playing bass for Jerry Lee Lewis, touring with Lewis’s band until the famous “Killer” accidentally shot him. Butch continued to play in the Atlanta area for the rest of his life. Changing career focus, Butch retired from Dekalb County Water and Sewer after 17 years of service to his state and county. 

Butch was preceded in death by his parents, wife Jacqueline Mills Owens, and brother Jack Owens. He is survived by his daughter Jennifer Fain, son-in-law David Jenkins, sister-in-law Teresa Mills, brother Richard Owens, grandchildren Jesse James Fain and Taylor Jenkins, and great grandchildren Ronan Fain, and Lilian Watters.

A loving father, grandfather and great grandfather, Butch encouraged a love of music and art in all his family, along with a love of science fiction and fantasy. Always learning, he fostered the pursuit of knowledge and imagination in all who knew him. He will be immeasurably missed.

For anyone looking to attend, Norman “Butch” Owens Celebration of Life is being held at Fat Matt’s Rib Shack on Sunday, January 12th, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. We will have a small stage and openly welcome anyone who wishes to play, perform, or speak on Butch’s life. Bring your talents, or just hang out and listen.  Food and drink are not being provided, but Fat Matt’s is open and operating during the party. Fat Matt’s hosted Butch many times over the years, both as a solo artist and with various bands. The ribs were his favorite in Atlanta.  Please come join us as we fondly remember our loving father, grandfather, and guitar maestro.

Fat Matt's Rib Shack- 1811 Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30324.

To express condolences, please sign our online guest book at www.flaniganfuneralhome.com. Arrangements By: Junior E. Flanigan of Flanigan Funeral Home and Crematory, Buford, GA (770) 932-1133.