Dr. Garland Joseph Owensby

On May 29, 2023, Garland Joseph Owensby, 54, of Midlothian, Texas, passed unexpectedly from this life. Garland and Tiffani were married in 1992 and resided in Florida before moving to Texas. Garland’s greatest pride was the role of father to his three sons, Austin, Bryson, and Logan. He also loved that he could add the title “Father-in-law” when his son Austin married his wonderful wife, Sara. 

Garland was born on August 4, 1968, to Joseph and Naomi Owensby in Wilmington, Delaware.   Although Delaware was his birthplace, he considered Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, his home. He is one of three siblings but the only boy. His sister, Crystal Motlasz, also resides in Texas, and his other sister Stacey Krauss lives in Milford, Pennsylvania. Garland graduated from Kennett Square High School.

Garland was preceded in death by his mother, Naomi Owensby.

Garland had a deep-rooted faith that began at an early age. He earned his B.A. in Pastoral Ministries from Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida, and his master’s degree from Southwestern Assemblies of God University. He received his doctorate from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. His time as a youth minister was very meaningful to him. During his time as youth pastor at Northside Assembly of God in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, the group grew in their discipleship and evangelistic involvement. In 1993, Garland and Tiffani accepted the youth pastorate of First Assembly of God in Ocala, Florida. Garland also ministered as a children’s/teen evangelist with Don Triplett and the Castillo del Rey team in El Salvador, Central America. 

In the fall of 1998, Garland began his career as Youth and Student Ministries Coordinator and professor for Southwestern Assemblies of God University. He dedicated his life to others and believed in his work as a teacher, mentor, and leader. As news of his passing reached students, former and present, their words of gratitude for the teaching and leading he provided have continued to pour in. 

While teaching was his passion, we can’t forget about his comedy! Anyone who met him knew him to be fun, funny, and always making people laugh. He loved bringing joy to others in his comedy. He was able to perform at several famous improv venues and received national exposure through satellite radio. But Garland didn’t stop there (“Of course, he didn’t!). He released 3 comedy CDs that are still available for all to enjoy. 

Garland was a fun-spirited soul who took on many other passions. He LOVED Disney, and he LOVED baseball – especially the Phillies. He enjoyed traveling the world and had begun to amass a great collection of Star Wars memorabilia. Also, he loved music, especially rock music, and especially the Beatles.

To know Garland was to love him. He cared so deeply for the people in his life. For those fortunate enough to count him as a husband, father, son, brother, friend, teacher, colleague, and mentor, we were truly blessed.