Cornelia (Jones) Croan Owens

Services for Winifred "Cornelia" (Jones) Croan Owens, 85, of Elkins, Arkansas, are scheduled for 2:00 P.M., Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the Alexander Gray Funeral Home Chapel in Healdton. Interment will follow at Mount Olive Cemetery in Healdton. 

Cornelia was born September 21, 1940, at Grant, Alabama, to the late Mr. France Edward Jones and Mrs. Lucy Bernice (Winkles) Jones. She departed this life March 2, 2026, at Elkins, Arkansas.

Cornelia leaves behind a legacy defined by her creativity, resilience, and artistic talent. A passionate artist, Cornelia found joy in painting and quilting, often expressing her vibrant personality through her creations. Her hands skillfully transformed fabric into treasured quilts, and her canvases reflected the world as she saw it—full of color and life. Additionally, she took great pleasure in nurturing her flower beds, creating serene spaces that not only brought beauty to her home but also provided her with personal solace. Cornelia's professional journey was notably marked by her dedication and commitment to excellence. She retired from Walmart, where she distinguished herself with her remarkable ability to learn new systems and her dedication to training others. Her impact on her colleagues led to a lasting tribute upon her retirement—a training room named in her memory, symbolizing the profound difference she made within the organization. Cornelia’s personal life was shaped by both love and loss. She married Mr. Avery "Hoppy" Richard Croan on August 24, 1957, but was heartbroken when he tragically passed away in a car accident on December 8, 1966, leaving her to raise four small children on her own. Her strength shone brightly during these challenging times. Cornelia remarried on June 3, 1968, to Mr. Jimmie Owens, but she suffered loss again with his passing on September 5, 1989. A devoted member of the Union Church at Baptist Ford in West Fork, AR, Cornelia's faith and community involvement were integral parts of her life. She engaged deeply with her church community, providing support and kindness to those around her. Cornelia’s life was filled with love, creativity, and a deep commitment to her family and friends.

Preceding her in death are her parents, France Edward and Lucy Bernice Jones; husbands, Avery "Hoppy" Croan and Jimmie Owens; son, Troy Glenn Croan; sister, Wanda Francine Lucas; brother, Edward Gene Jones. 

Survivors include her three daughters, Roda Wright and husband Carl of Vian, Ok, Janet Walker and husband Preston of Elkins, AR, Ava Slinkard and husband Jefferson of Lincoln, AR; brother, Leonard Jones and wife Kayla of Healdton, OK; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, other family, and friends.

 Pallbearers will be David Keck, Todd Keck, Daniel Walker, Avery Findahl, Cody Doyle, Brandon Stamps, and Landon Keck. 

Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.alexandergrayfh.com.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made, in memory of Cornelia, to ALS organization by visiting the website: als.org