Rebecca Thompson Owens

Rebecca Thompson Owens, 67, passed away on Thursday, November 5, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of memories and a family who will forever carry her love in their hearts. She was born on April 6, 1959, in El Paso, Texas, to the late Gilbert and Norma “Sue” Thompson. After moving to Lexington, NC, she found the love of her life, Danny, whom she married on May 21, 1978.

To know Rebecca was to know laughter, kindness, and a heart always willing to help others. She loved telling stories, sharing jokes, and making people smile. Her family will forever remember her familiar sayings like “Cool beans,” her beloved mispronunciation of “Frajitas,” and the special nicknames she gave those she loved, such as “Doodlebug” and “Chicken-legs.” And of course, her funny, favorite goodbyes that left you smiling, “See you later, alligator.” These little things made her who she was and will forever bring smiles to the faces of those who loved her.

Rebecca devoted 41 years of her life to nursing, earning her LPN in 1986 from Rowan-Cabarrus Community College and her RN in 1991 from Stanly Community College. Throughout her career, she served in many roles, including cardio-thoracic charge nurse, heart transplant nurse, ICU and ER charge nurse, Director of Nursing, Case Manager, and MDS nurse. Her quick thinking, compassion, and dedication to helping others undoubtedly saved countless lives. Her desire to help others extended far beyond her nursing career. She was the person who would stop to help a stranger without giving it a second thought. While at Stamey’s BBQ, she witnessed a man suffering cardiac arrest and immediately began CPR and chest compressions until paramedics arrived, helping save his life. To Rebecca, helping someone in need was never something to think twice about. It was simply who she was.

She was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother and great-grandmother, and cherished sister and aunt. Rebecca is survived by her loving husband, Daniel Owens; her son, Martin Owens, and his wife, Tonya; and her daughter, Heather Lasley. She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Noah Sanders, Owen Sanders, Nevaeh Sanders, Tristen Sanders, Harper Owens, and Scarlett Lasley; and 3 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters, Carla Tilly, her husband, Perry; Christy Miller, her husband, Larry; her sisters-in-law, Glenda Hope and Sue Black; six nephews, two nieces, and several great-nieces and great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her son-in-law, Matthew Sanders; her brothers-in-law, Bill Hope and Jerry Black; and her beloved four-legged baby, Bernard.

Rebecca’s life was defined by love, laughter, strength, and selfless service. She spent her years caring for others, making people laugh, and leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her. While her absence will leave an emptiness that words cannot describe, her love and the memories she created will live on through the generations. Forever loved, deeply missed, but never forgotten.

The family will hold a small Celebration of Life service on November 16, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Charity Baptist Church, located at 1912 N NC-150, Lexington, NC. Those wishing to express their love and condolences may send flowers, meals, or other thoughtful gestures to Martin Owens’ home at 2010 Tyro School Rd, Lexington, NC. The family sincerely appreciates the kindness and support during this difficult time.