Hulen Owens, beloved father, grandfather and great-grandfather passed away on September 23, 2026, at age 94. He was born in Bayou La Batre, AL on May 28,1932 to parents Harrison and Erna Owens and was the oldest of four brothers. He graduated from Alba High School in 1950 where he excelled in basketball and track. At 18 years of age, Hulen proudly served the United States as a Marine in the Korean War and rose to the rank of Sergeant. Being one of the first men on the beach in Korea, he bravely fought on the front lines using a crank powered field phone to communicate coordinates with US naval ships.

After the war, Hulen worked at various Mobile, AL businesses and later retired to Coden, AL following 32 years at Scott Paper Company. He also served as a warrant officer for the state of Alabama and a constable. Hulen was a member of mystic and community organizations and a proud member of the American Legion Post 250 (Bailey's Corner).

Hulen had a remarkable gift for story and joke telling. He loved Alabama football, living near the water, fishing, entertaining friends and neighbors, traveling, cowboy movies and a good fish-fry. His wife of 66 years, Reola Owens, was his dance partner and best friend. He was lovingly known as "Poppy" by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Hulen was preceded in death by his wife, Reola McLain Owens; son, Harrison Owens; parents, W. Harrison and Erna Marceaux Owens; brothers Harvel and Arven Owens.

Hulen is survived by his daughter, Denna Owens Morris (Donald) of Orange Beach, AL; brother, Learon Owens (Bertie Bosarge) of Montgomery, AL and cherished grandchildren and great-grand children.

A graveside service will be held at Odd Fellows Cemetery, 12450 Irvington Bayou La Batre Hwy., Bayou La Batre, AL 36544 on Tuesday, September 29 at 10:00 AM.