Belva Jean Owen Childress

Belva Jean Owen Childress, 78, of Morganton, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, service, and deep devotion to her community.

Born on September 23, 1947, in Transylvania County to Lois Hall Owen and Conway Owen, Belva was a bright light from an early age. After graduating high school in South Carolina, she went on to earn recognition for her grace and poise as the winner of the Miss Easley beauty pageant and Runner-Up in the Miss South Carolina beauty pageant.

Belva was known professionally as a talented Rustic Furniture and Architectural Installations Designer, a career that reflected her natural creativity and eye for beauty. Her work, featured in prestigious homes throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains, including the 2008 HGTV home, showcased her passion for design and her ability to transform natural materials into unique, inviting works of art.

Above all, Belva was a beloved member of her community and the warmest of souls. She is survived by her son, Rob Childress; her daughter, Tracy Primeau; her brother, Shirle Owen; her sister, Joyce Owen Tanner; and her sister-in-law, Margaret Owen. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren—Nathan Taylor, Tamara Taylor, and Kristain Primeau—and her treasured great-grandchildren: McKenzie, Levi, Addalyn, Caden, Luke, Bella, Lilly, Bryson, and Ember.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lois Hall Owen and Conway Owen, and her siblings Truitt Owen, Billy Owen, Linville Owen, Sylvia Owen Galloway, Sue Owen McCall, and Leon Owen.

Belva’s heart for service was evident throughout her life. She volunteered in Hurricane Hugo cleanup efforts and faithfully served at the MANNA FoodBank for more than two decades. Deeply rooted in her faith, she was actively involved in her church, God’s Way Fellowship in Balsam Grove.

Belva Childress will be remembered for her radiant spirit, her artistic talents, and the love she poured into her family and community. Her light lives on in the many lives she touched and in the beautiful legacy she leaves behind.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers who surrounded Belva with comfort and dignity in her final days. They extend special thanks to the dedicated staff at Cranberry House in Newland, NC, and to the caring team at Medi Home Hospice, whose kindness, attentiveness, and gentle support meant more than words can express.

A memorial service to celebrate Belva’s life will be held on Friday, March 6, at 2:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend and honor the beautiful life and legacy she leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to MANNA FoodBank, 99 Broadpointe Dr, Mills River, NC 28759, mannafoodbank.org

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.