Latasha Owen

Latasha Ellen Owen was born on July 28, 1977, in Smithfield, North Carolina, to the late Lonnie Henry 

Faison and Beulah Ann Massey Darden. She departed this life on Monday, June 30, 2025, at her 

home.

Latasha attended public schools in Johnston County and later earned her GED from Johnston 

Community College. She worked in several manufacturing companies and spent many years doing 

domestic and home healthcare work until her health no longer allowed her to continue.

Latasha was known for her joyful spirit and love of laughter. She had a big, bright smile that showed 

off her beautiful dimples. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends and deeply loved

her daughter Vanessa. The two were inseparable—like two peas in a pod.

Latasha was a woman of faith. She attended St. Peter Church of Christ and later became a member of 

Resurrection Hill Christian Center. She enjoyed playing music, including the drums, bongo, keyboard, 

and her father’s guitar.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her first daughter, Christina Haley Perry.

Latasha leaves to cherish her memory her beloved daughter, Vanessa Christina Owen of the home, 

and her fiancé, Mr. Lewis Merritt. She is also survived by three brothers: Anthony Darden (Levadia),

Shelton Darden, and Bishop Robert Darden Owen Sr.; and five sisters: Marie Darden-Perry 

(Rebecca), Sharon Darden, Evangelist Michelle Pender, Comedian Owen, and Elder Roberta Thomas 

(Eric).

She also leaves behind six nephews: Julius Blackwell, Antonio Benjamin Darden, Antawin Cole, 

Leshawn Edouard, Brian Sanders, and Robert Owen Jr.; four nieces: Jessica Owen, Marchelle 

Sanders, Chelton Darden, and De’ja McGill; four aunts: Pearl Warren, Sherry Faison, Margaret Elliott, 

and Elizabeth Jones; and two uncles: Randolph Darden and Larry Faison. Latasha will be 

remembered with love by many great-nieces and nephews, extended family, and a host of dear 

friends.