Jacob Wayne Owen, 25, of Lorena, Texas, went home to be with Jesus on October 2, 2023, after a courageous battle with brain cancer. Jake was born on September 9, 1998, in Waco, Texas, to his proud parents, Craig and Teresa Owen. Jake graduated from high school in 2017. He immediately enrolled in the MCC EMS program, and shortly after, he completed the fire academy. Jake’s dream of becoming a firefighter, inspired by his father, Craig, of the Georgetown Fire Department, became a reality when he joined the Jarrell Fire Department in 2018. His dedication and hard work led to a promotion to engineer, a position he was thrilled to hold. Jake was also a proud member of the honor guard and had swift water and tech rescue training. He absolutely loved being a firefighter, and he loved his crew. You never heard a complaint come out of his mouth. He loved a challenge and would go all in no matter the circumstances. Above all, Jake strived to excel within his profession and always wanted to be the best he could be to serve others and his community.

Jake’s personality was pure and sweet. He had an infectious smile and magical hugs that he shared often. He loved playing praise and worship songs in his truck or watching funny shows that made him laugh. He was slow to anger and quick to forgive. Away from work, he loved spending time with his grandparents, going to movies, and hanging out with his girlfriend, family, and friends. He and his younger sister, Bailey, had a special bond and spent lots of precious time together.

One word to describe Jake is selfless. He spent the entirety of his diagnosis worried about everyone but himself. Jake and his dad were inseparable during treatments and worked together every day to make sure he was the healthiest and strongest he could possibly be. Due to the diagnosis, Jake’s family was able to hug him and tell him “I Love You” every day from the very beginning. While we didn’t get enough time, there is no doubt that he knew he was loved. Not a day shall pass that he is not missed dearly, but we find peace knowing he is resting in the arms of his Savior in Heaven and is free from all earthly pain and sickness.

Overall, Jake’s warm personality, work ethic, huge heart, beautiful smile, unwavering faith, and famous bear hugs left a lasting imprint on all those fortunate enough to know him.