Remembering Fr. Bernard ‘Jess’ Owens, CSB: A Life of Joyful Faith and Service
August 21, 2025
Fr. John Huber (Left) and Fr. Owens (Right)
Fr. Jess Owens, CSB, passed away peacefully on 17 August 2025 in Tehuacán at the age of 86. A Basilian for 68 years and a priest for 57, he devoted his life to faith, service, and community.
The funeral processions were attended by more than 100 people, presided over by Father Pablo CSB, and all the Basilians in Mexico, At the parish of San Lorenzo Tehuacán.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, Jess was known for his humility, joy, and simplicity. He served in parishes across Canada, Mexico, and Paris, touching countless lives with his kindness, humor, and spiritual guidance. He was a devoted teacher, confessor, and friend, always ready with a smile, a listening ear, or a favorite saying: “I never had a beer I didn’t like.”
Jess celebrated the Eucharist with deep love, engaged communities wherever he went, and inspired generations of Basilians and parishioners to live faithfully and joyfully. The funeral processions were attended by more than 100 people, presided over by Father Pablo CSB, and all the Basilians in Mexico, At the parish of San Lorenzo Tehuacán.
May the Lord Jesus welcome him into His kingdom, and may St. Basil the Great watch over our Congregation as he did throughout his life.
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