Obituaries

Buffalo Jody Owen (John Richard Owen)

On April 9th, 2025, in the loving company of his favorite daughter, Janet Owen, Jody Owen—known fondly as "Buffalo Jody"—closed the curtain on a very lucky life. A charismatic storyteller, devoted friend, and man of many talents, Jody's journey was one of creativity and boundless humor.

Testing…testing…1, 2, 3…

Act One: Born October 2, 1944, an only child surrounded by caring neighbors, aunts, uncles, cousins, and his beloved grandmother his life began, in “Ferguson, Missouri, you might have heard of it”. He proudly served as a Radioman and choir member in the U.S. Navy, traveling to Japan and serving during the Vietnam War. In 1967, he embraced the Baha’i Faith, leading him to the Caribbean, where in 1970 he settled with his then-wife, Joyce Owen Olinga, and his first-born daughter. His broadcasting talents flourished, first in Antigua at the island's pioneering radio station and later in St. Thomas and St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. He created a children’s TV program called "The Buffalo Jody Show," and was renowned for enthusiastically shouting "Yip-yip-yawah!" and advising, "Mind your Momma!" to amused or confused strangers.

Act Two: Returning "home" to St. Louis in 1981, Jody continued his radio career at KADI 96 FM, KCFM 97.1, and KWRE 73 Country. Amidst various creative ventures, he enjoyed the simple pleasures of farm life with Carol Owen (Jackie McCoy) and his children—daughters Janet Owen and Nancy Owen-Elfanbaum (second favorite), and brilliant sons Richard Owen and Thomas John Owen.

Act Three: In 2002, Jody returned to St. Thomas and began a cherished 20-year loving relationship with his Sweet Nadine (Winter). They moved to Florida in 2004, where Jody captivated audiences in community theaters across Delray Beach and South Beach. This chapter enriched Jody’s life with Nadine’s wonderful daughters, Skye and Lana, and sisters Merrilyn and Pamela, alongside dear Jala and Zara.

Intermission: Behind the scenes, Jody’s happiest moments unfolded with cousins and close friends at "The Cottage" in Michigan—singing the old songs, sharing stories, visiting art shows, and enjoying picnics by the lake.

Final Act: Returning to St. Louis, embraced by his four children and six grandchildren, Jody composed his final chapter. In his closing days, he found peace with the thought that perhaps he would soon reunite with his mother, who passed during his youth, and took comfort in knowing his final resting place would be alongside his cherished grandmother.

Applause: May Jody Owen forever be celebrated for doing what he could, whenever he could, to bring a chortle to the general vicinity. May he tiptoe through eternal tulips with Ray Charles, Alex Trebek, Captain Kangaroo, and the many friends who went ahead. And may he triumphantly greet Elvis whenever the King finally decides to arrive. Send in the Clowns.