Dewey Thomas Owensby, 78, passed away at his home on February 13, 2026. Born on February 26, 1947, in McCaysville Georgia, to Arthur Hershel Owensby and Mattie Lou Ella Harris, Dewey spent his childhood on family land in Copperhill, a place that shaped him deeply and remained his truest sense of home. After retiring, he returned to that same land, closing the circle of a life rooted in the hills of Tennessee.

In midlife, Dewey moved to Illinois, where he worked for the Chicago Laborers Union for his entire career. There he met Rita Elrod, and together they raised their two children, Kelly and Jason. Dewey was a devoted father and wonderful grandfather. He was known for his unwavering work ethic and his commitment to providing for and supporting his family. He poured himself into the lives of his children and six grandchildren, always showing up with generosity, humor, and the knack for finding a good bargain.

A humble man with a big heart, Dewey loved to fish and took great joy in passing that passion down to his grandchildren. Dewey was an avid hunter, who cherished time spent in the woods, and he found great happiness in playing cards with his family and friends. These simple pleasures reflected the steady, down‑to‑earth way he moved through life.

Dewey was easily recognized by his short‑sleeved pocket shirts and his ever-present hat, small trademarks of a man who lived life with ease and authenticity. Though he will be deeply missed, the spirit of his Appalachian homeland, and the legacy of Dewey's childhood roots will continue to live on through his family.

Dewey was preceded in death by parents Arthur Hershel Owensby and Mattie Lou Ella Harris (Owensby), siblings Charles Owensby, Mary Owensby, Ruby Owensby, Louise Owensby, and Betty Rooks (Owensby). Dewey is survived by his children, Jason Owensby and Kelly Reyes; his siblings David Owensby, Lunnas Goode, Donna (Jimmy) Melver, Bobby Owensby, Roger (Loretta) Owensby, and Sandra (Andy) Nevler; and his grandchildren Madeline Reyes, Antonio Reyes, Mateo Reyes, Leila Reyes, Walker Owensby, and Griffin Owensby. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, great‑nieces, great‑nephews, and other beloved family members who will remember him with love.

The family visited with friends and relatives on Monday, February 16, 2026 from 5-9 p.m. at Akins‑Cobb Funerals & Cremations of Copperhill.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. from the Akins-Cobb Copperhill Chapel with Rev. Ricky Harris officiating. Interment followed the service at Bethlehem Cemetery. Pallbearers were Jason Owensby, Antonio Reyes, Shannon Owensby, Jadon Owensby, Cason Owensby, and Philip Owensby.

Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.akinscobb.com.

Akins-Cobb Funerals & Cremations of Copperhill was in charge of arrangements.