Patricia "Patti" Ann Owens

Patti Owens, 73, of Beaufort, NC, passed away suddenly but peacefully on March 6th, 2025.

Born in Philadelphia, PA, and raised in Rockville, MD, Patti was a vibrant and cherished member of the Beaufort community for the past 20 years. She was a graduate of Peary High School and began her career immediately, joining Montgomery County Public Schools as a Computer Tape Librarian. While working, she diligently pursued her education, earning an Associate's degree from Montgomery College and receiving in-house training to become a skilled computer programmer.

Patti dedicated 28 years to Montgomery County Public Schools, retiring early at the age of 46. In Beaufort, Patti found a new chapter filled with community involvement and joy. She generously volunteered her time with various non-profit organizations, including Beaufort Wine and Food, Bonehenge Whale Center, and Friends of the Maritime Museum. She loved boating, traveling, and cherished visits with her two grandsons, Logan and Elija. Her favorite pastime was relaxing on the back porch of her waterfront home, watching the spectacular sunsets and the endless parade of yachts and fishing boats navigating the Intracoastal Waterway.

Patti was a devoted wife to Nelson, her husband of 44 years, whom she met serendipitously in the produce aisle of Safeway, where he worked while attending college. She was a loving mother to Kevin, Kyle, and honorary daughter (soon to be daughter-in-law) Rachel Sweet; Adoring grandmother to Kevin’s sons Logan and Elija; and sister to Leo McWilliams, his wife Tobey, Kathleen Ruskin, and Kelly Ruskin, She is also survived by scores of great friends, who became like family during her time in Beaufort.

True to her spirited nature, Patti did not wish for a funeral or flowers. Instead, she desired a lively celebration of her life with all those she held dear. A celebration of Patti's life will be held at Tapping the Admiral Rum Bar sometime this spring. Details will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers or donations, the family thinks that Patti would prefer that friends honor her memory by visiting the Admiral, the bar she helped establish, raising a glass in her name, sharing laughter and stories, and enjoying the camaraderie she so valued.

Arrangements by Noe Funeral Service, Inc. of Beaufort, NC.