Deke Slayton Owens—beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend—passed away Wednesday, December 24, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, loyalty, and extraordinary devotion to family, friends, and community.

Deke is survived by his wife of 32 years, Corinne, and their three cherished children, Rachel (Carter), Allyson (Zachary), and Slayton. He is also survived by his mother, Virginia Owens; his father and stepmother, Jack and Pat Owens; his brothers, Brett Owens (Amber) and Duane Owens (Audrey); and his sisters, Molly Smith (Tom), Laura Barfield (Clay), and Stacey Grayson (Patrick); along with many nieces and nephews who adored him.

Born in Birmingham, Alabama, Deke was raised in Jacksonville, North Carolina, where he graduated from Jacksonville High School in 1989. He continued his education at East Carolina University (1993), later earning his Juris Doctor from Samford University's Cumberland School of Law in Birmingham, Alabama in 1996.

An exceptional athlete and adventurer, Deke lived life with passion and courage. He grew up surfing, skiing, and playing numerous sports, lettering in both varsity soccer and football in high school. At East Carolina University, he became a standout kicker, playing a key role in the Pirates' 1992 Peach Bowl victory. His love of sports continued throughout his life as a devoted coach, supporter, and proud parent, never missing a game or school event for his children. He was a loyal fan of his beloved Cardinals and Pirates, and a constant supporter of local athletes.

Deke also embraced adventure—golfing whenever possible, skydiving and bungee jumping multiple times, and achieving the rare distinction of being an expedition climber, summiting Mount Everest Base Camp (Asia), Mount Kilimanjaro twice (Tanzania), Mount Elbrus (Russia), Mount Ararat (Turkey), and Mount Huayna Potosi (Bolivia).

Professionally, Deke dedicated nearly three decades to the practice of law. Since 1996, he worked tirelessly as a skilled and principled attorney, fiercely advocating for his clients and generously offering his knowledge and support to anyone in need.

Above all, Deke found his greatest joy in his family and friends. The deep and lasting friendships he formed throughout his life stand as a testament to his kindness, loyalty, humor, and generous spirit.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 3, 2026, at 4:00 PM at Jacksonville Country Club, 2201 Country Club Road, Jacksonville, NC 28546.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to NAMI North Carolina in support of mental health education, advocacy, and resources, or to the charity of your choice. https://naminc.org/

The family thanks you for your love, prayers, and support during this difficult time.

A life well lived. A life well loved.
A man forever cherished.

We Love You More, Deke!