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Celebrating the life of

Owen M. Anderson

August 07, 1919 - March 25, 2016

Owen M. Anderson

Owen Monroe Anderson, 96, died peacefully in his sleep, at home under the loving care of his family and Spanish Oaks Hospice, on Good Friday, March 25, 2016.  He was the son of Monroe and Florence "Hap" Anderson and was born on August 7, 1919, in Cummings, SC.  He was predeceased by his parents, his brothers Willie Ralph Anderson and Clyde Ray Anderson, and his sister Margaret Anderson Ducey.  He is survived by his wife of almost 65 years, Lessie Voyles Anderson; his daughter and son-in-law, Happi and Art Gallaher; and, a host of nieces and nephews on both sides of his family.  He graduated from Commercial High School in 1937 and served in the U.S. Army National Guard.  He succeeded his father in owning and operating Anderson's Grocery in the Avondale neighborhood until the store closed with his retirement in 1984. Afterwards, he was employed by Central Warehouse and Development Company through October, 2015.  He was a past active Mason and Shriner.  He grew up in Morningside Baptist Church and was currently a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Savannah Ward.  The family would like to thank Gina and Greg Campbell, "Miss" Margaret, Barbara Heyward, and many other devoted neighbors and friends for their loving assistance in recent weeks.

Visitation will be 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Monday, March 28, 2016 at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel.

Funeral Service will be 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 29, 2016 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Savannah Ward.

Memorial contributions may be made to Spanish Oaks Hospice, 8510 Whitefield Ave., Savannah, GA 31406; or, to LDS Philanthropies, P.O. Box 27188, Provo, UT 84602 (designate "Missionary Fund").

Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel

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GUEST BOOK

I was only 7 yrs old when my family & 6 children moved away from Avondale. No one in my family will ever forget this kind man. I have my very own fond memories, of which I could write a small novella! Somehow while precisively butchering meat, he could hand out the VERY juiciest snowcones with the other hand!! God bless this family. Thank you all for being a part of my happy memories??????

- Teresa Hodges, Richmond Hill, Ga

I am so sorry to hear Mr. Owen has passed away. I knew the entire Anderson family and went their many times.....The store is and always will be part of Avondale History. Mr. Owen was a kind man and Gentleman. Our kids will never know how close our entire neighborhood was with the local store close to the park was......I cannot even think about avondale without thinking about Mr. Owen and the store period......AND it ALWAYS brings a smile to my face....I can see him laughing and discussing the days events like yesterday......I will see him in heaven....I KNOW he is at peace...What a man......Dad is 91 and he respected him greatly....all I can say is WOW, because Dad never says that about most anyone. Mr. Anderson will be greatly missed....Condolences to you all.

- Wayne T. McCullough, Springfield, GA

I'm going to miss you, my dear sweet friend. Your beautiful soul will be with our Father in Heaven & Savior, until we meet again! I will keep the memories of our laughter and talks close to my heart. Thank you for your LOVE! <3 <3 <3 LOVE, your little one, Evelyn Fuentes

- Evelyn Fuentes, Blackshear & Savannah, GA

So sorry to hear about Mr Anderson passing away. He was a prime example of good person. A Hard working All American man with excellent traits and family values. I remember him well growing up in Avondale. He never failed to ask about everyone in our family and that was many times as it was my first stop on the way home from the park. Everbody respected him. We we will all miss him dearly.

- Rudy Hodges, Fayetteville, Nc

My mother Doris Goldberg Wiggins lived in the Avondale neighborhood. She speaks of those days as precious memories in her childhood and young adult life. I remember Mr. Anderson's grocery store when my Grandmother Mable Davis (Grandma Wiggs) would stand on her stoop and watch me as a young girl walk to Mr. Anderson's grocery store and purchase pound cake and ice cream. I loved those days and remember him fondly. Bless you and your family. JoAnne Wiggins Warman

- Doris Goldberg Wiggins, Richmond Hill, GA

The wonderful memories as a young boy hanging out at Anderson Groceries is still so precious to me. The picture of the grocery store hangs on my wall and reminds me of my wonderful childhood days in Avondale. Mr Owen Anderson became a special part of these memories and was always so kind and gracious to me. His wonderful smile and booming character behind the butcher block will never be forgotten. There are so many special memories there of hanging out with all my neighborhood buddies and my best friend Lynn Moody, who delivered groceries for Mr. Owen on his bicycle. Those summer days playing in the park, meeting at the store for a Frostie Root Beer, Byrd oatmeal cookies, pitching pennies, and even watching the World Series on the old black & white television that hung on the wall in the back. I cherish these memories and the good people that made my life very special. Mr Owen Anderson never really understood just what he meant to me personally and what a great inspiration he provided for my life as a young boy. He will be sadly missed but he will not be forgotten. Every time I walk by the picture of Andersons Grocery Store hanging on my wall, I will smile and remember those memorable days of my youth. I will never forget Mr. Anderson. With all our love to Mrs Anderson, Happi and all the family. Danny, Dee and Ashley Kramer

- Danny Kramer, Savannah, GA

So sad to learn of Uncle Owen's passing. I know how much Aunt Lessie depends upon him. They are such a wonderful couple. Aunt Lessie we love you. We would be there but we are on our way to Utah to visit with family there. May God be with you during this trial. I'm sure Owen has gone on ahead to prepare a place for you. That would be like him. Gene and Arcola

- Gene Voyles, Smithville, MS

Thinking about you and your loss. I hope I live that my life will be as rewarding as Uncle Owen's. You are in my thoughts and prayers. LaTreva Dickman

- LaTreva Dickman, Orlando, FL

How many wonderful memories I have of going to Owen's grocery store, to get Byrd's oatmeal cookies! I wish I had a dime for every afternoon that I went there with my mother, Jane Daniel, to pick up meat for dinner that night!!! I never saw Owen, or Lessie for that matter, without a smile on their faces!!! Their love for each other and for God surely was evident by the way they lived their lives together. Owen was truly one of the sweetest, kindest men I've ever known. Even though I haven't seen him recently, I will always cherish those childhood memories of him and Anderson's Grocery store. Love and sympathy to Lessie, Happi, and all of your family. You are all in my prayers, and I will be with you in spirit tomorrow. Thank God for such wonderful, happy memories!

- Jan Daniel Crawford, Virginia Beach,, Va.

I have many fond memories of the Anderson family and the store. My condolences to Happi, her mom, and family.

- Tracy Crouch Penninger, Marietta, Ga

I'm sorry for Bro Anderson's passing. We will miss him very much. I love you, mama!

- Sisa Bujnowski, Frisco, TX

Please accept my deepest sympathy on Bro. Owen's passing. I will always remember our time working with the scouts. And I will never forget how he always called me "you knucklehead."

- Ken Bujnowski, Frisco, TX

Owen Anderson was one of the most wonderful and kind men I ever knew. When I was a kid, I would go to his store and he would have me help him. Because we lived far away from our family, he was like the grandfather I never had. My deepest sympathies go out to his entire family.

- Aaron Bujnowski, Frisco, TX

I have wonderful memories of Owen he was such a sweetheart! I was friends with his daughter and spent time over at her house.He always made me feel welcomed. Prayers to Sister Anderson and Happi, lots of great memories from my teen years!

- Karla Hayslip Morgan , Eagle Mountain, Utah

We will remember Owen Anderson as a great man. Our family was blessed in November to visit with Lessie and Owen in their home. So pleased that our boys got to sit a spell with true southern gentleman. He told some fun stories and the room was filled with laughter. We love the Anderson family and send our love to Lessie and Happy. Love, Teddy, Kathy, David, Nathan, and Jonah Blocker

- Teddy Blocker Family, Springville, UT

So many fond memories of the little store. My best, my nickname "Pickles" by Mr. RADGIO, for all the pickles I ate.

- The Floyd Family & Mrs Lilly Lee grands, Savannah , GA

So many fond memories of the little store. My best, my nickname "Pickles" by Mr. RADGIO, for all the pickles I ate.

- The Floyd Family & Mrs Lilly Lee grands, Savannah , GA

Happy and family my sincere sympathy for the loss of your father. If there was ever a man that you could count on having a smile it was Mr. Anderson. The lessons he taught us as children are lessons that are lost on children off today. How we of Avondale were so blessed to have him and the store. Hopefully he will be making that liver pudding in heaven!

- Rhonda Powell, Smyrna, Ga

My sincere condolences to the Anderson Family on the passing of your dear loved one. May Jehovah God, the God of comfort grant you his peace while you await the fulfillment of his promise at John 5:28(to resurrect those who have been asleep in death. May fond memories of Owen linger in your hearts and bring you peace in the days to come.

- Henry, Lawrenceville, GA

I didn't grow up in the Avondale neighborhood. I met him shortly after I purchased 2125 Texas Ave., the house across the street from his store. What a bonus ( ! ) having the wonderful Mom and Pop store across the street. I got to know Owen over the couple of years I lived there. His sausage was fantastic and cuts of beef were "as you like it." When I moved I missed the wonderful conversations with Owen more than anything. I have thought of him often over the years and have regrets for not staying in touch. Godspeed Mr. Owen...

- Jimmy Wilson, Clyo, ga

I love what Bill Harrison said. "They just don't make them like him anymore." They sure don't. My heart breaks for you Happi and Miss Lessie. He was a wonderful man and will be missed my all that had the honor to know him.

- Charmaine Horne, Savannah, Ga

What a great man, Owen taught me many things that I didn't realize until I was older,thank you mrs. Anderson and Happi for sharing Owen with all of us kids

- David marston, Kingsland, Ga

..like many others, I grew up on food from the store...my Mom, Dot Harrison, was a loyal customer for many years & Owen Anderson was as fine a Southern Gentleman as they come...ALWAYS...we just are not making more like him...God Bless you, Mr. Owen. Peace be with you and your family. The Harrison boys, Barry & Bill

- Bill Harrison, Pembroke Pines, FL

Lived beside the store until I was 13 years old. Me and his nephew Ray would go to the old Coke coolers and get ice from there on hot summer days, Owen never said anything to us for taking the ice. I was driving around Avondale a couple of years ago and seen him walking from his car, I am so glad he lived a long life.

- Joe Williams, Eden, GA

There are so many memories and not enough space to express all Owen and Lessie meant to the Avondale neighborhood. Their love, generosity and kindness will never be forgotten! My heart is very heavy and my deepest sympathy to Mrs. Anderson and Happi.

- Martha Hord Wester. , savannah, Ga

Such a fine man to have looked up to during my childhood in Avondale.....always greeted me with a smile and a RC Cola...a truly great man from my childhood.....God Bless You Mr Anderson....much love forever! Barry

- Barry Johnson, Savannah, Ga

So sorry to hear Bro. Anderson has passed. He was a sweet & caring person & will be missed by many. Prayers & Love to each of you. Marilyn Sturgess hearon

- Marilyn Sturgess Hearon, Midway, Ga.

I remember so much , about Mr Anderson , Cant put all memories on here . One really stands out is when he would slice the bolonie , he would save the butt end for me . I would come through that old back screen door , and he would say , hey boy , i have something for ya . There is not better part of balonie , like the butt . I also remember those 1 cent oat meal cookies . Wow has time changed . Try buying an oatmeal cookie today for a penny

- Elton Stafford, Richmond hill, Ga

I grew up on the corner of Florida and Ohio Avenues in Avondale in the late 50's and 60's. I have long since left Savannah, however my childhood was marked by my frequent trips to Anderson's grocery. Both of the Anderson's were wonderful people and I will always remember their kindness. I also remember clearly when they were happy to announce that they were expecting a daughter. These were truly some blessed days in my childhood. And even though I did not get to see Mr. Anderson, he was frequently discussed in conversations with my brother, Wayne McCullough.

- Linda McCullough Thrift, Nahunta,, GA

I remember so fondly going to his store as a little girl to pick up groceries. He was a kind and honest man. Wow, 96 he lived a long full life. God bless and prayers for his wife and family

- Bonnie McIver, Savannah-Rincon, GA

I have many fond memories of growing up in the 60's and visiting the store for a Coke or RC cola. Mr. Anderson would usually be in the back working on a hunk of beef. Avondale has certainly changed since those days and it was residents like Mr. Owen that made it a great place to live and grow up. He will not be forgotten.

- Bill Harmon, Goose Creek , SC

Aunt Lessie,and Happi. I'm so very sorry to hear about Uncle Owen's passing. He was such a very happy memory of my childhood. Mom and I send our condolences and are keeping y'all in our prayers. With love , Julie and Willa. NeSmith

- Julie NeSmith Tyler, Pooler, Ga

So sorry for your loss. Owen left an abundance of good memories to the families in Avondale. We will uplift your family in prayers. God bless you all.

- Pat Ward, Sandra W Hutton, Jackie Cribbs, Savannah, GA

I was only 7 yrs old when my family & 6 children moved away from Avondale. No one in my family will ever forget this kind man. I have my very own fond memories, of which I could write a small novella! Somehow while precisively butchering meat, he could hand out the VERY juiciest snowcones with the other hand!! God bless this family. Thank you all for being a part of my happy memories??????

- Teresa Hodges, Richmond Hill, Ga

I am so sorry to hear Mr. Owen has passed away. I knew the entire Anderson family and went their many times.....The store is and always will be part of Avondale History. Mr. Owen was a kind man and Gentleman. Our kids will never know how close our entire neighborhood was with the local store close to the park was......I cannot even think about avondale without thinking about Mr. Owen and the store period......AND it ALWAYS brings a smile to my face....I can see him laughing and discussing the days events like yesterday......I will see him in heaven....I KNOW he is at peace...What a man......Dad is 91 and he respected him greatly....all I can say is WOW, because Dad never says that about most anyone. Mr. Anderson will be greatly missed....Condolences to you all.

- Wayne T. McCullough, Springfield, GA

I'm going to miss you, my dear sweet friend. Your beautiful soul will be with our Father in Heaven & Savior, until we meet again! I will keep the memories of our laughter and talks close to my heart. Thank you for your LOVE! <3 <3 <3 LOVE, your little one, Evelyn Fuentes

- Evelyn Fuentes, Blackshear & Savannah, GA

So sorry to hear about Mr Anderson passing away. He was a prime example of good person. A Hard working All American man with excellent traits and family values. I remember him well growing up in Avondale. He never failed to ask about everyone in our family and that was many times as it was my first stop on the way home from the park. Everbody respected him. We we will all miss him dearly.

- Rudy Hodges, Fayetteville, Nc

My mother Doris Goldberg Wiggins lived in the Avondale neighborhood. She speaks of those days as precious memories in her childhood and young adult life. I remember Mr. Anderson's grocery store when my Grandmother Mable Davis (Grandma Wiggs) would stand on her stoop and watch me as a young girl walk to Mr. Anderson's grocery store and purchase pound cake and ice cream. I loved those days and remember him fondly. Bless you and your family. JoAnne Wiggins Warman

- Doris Goldberg Wiggins, Richmond Hill, GA

The wonderful memories as a young boy hanging out at Anderson Groceries is still so precious to me. The picture of the grocery store hangs on my wall and reminds me of my wonderful childhood days in Avondale. Mr Owen Anderson became a special part of these memories and was always so kind and gracious to me. His wonderful smile and booming character behind the butcher block will never be forgotten. There are so many special memories there of hanging out with all my neighborhood buddies and my best friend Lynn Moody, who delivered groceries for Mr. Owen on his bicycle. Those summer days playing in the park, meeting at the store for a Frostie Root Beer, Byrd oatmeal cookies, pitching pennies, and even watching the World Series on the old black & white television that hung on the wall in the back. I cherish these memories and the good people that made my life very special. Mr Owen Anderson never really understood just what he meant to me personally and what a great inspiration he provided for my life as a young boy. He will be sadly missed but he will not be forgotten. Every time I walk by the picture of Andersons Grocery Store hanging on my wall, I will smile and remember those memorable days of my youth. I will never forget Mr. Anderson. With all our love to Mrs Anderson, Happi and all the family. Danny, Dee and Ashley Kramer

- Danny Kramer, Savannah, GA

So sad to learn of Uncle Owen's passing. I know how much Aunt Lessie depends upon him. They are such a wonderful couple. Aunt Lessie we love you. We would be there but we are on our way to Utah to visit with family there. May God be with you during this trial. I'm sure Owen has gone on ahead to prepare a place for you. That would be like him. Gene and Arcola

- Gene Voyles, Smithville, MS

Thinking about you and your loss. I hope I live that my life will be as rewarding as Uncle Owen's. You are in my thoughts and prayers. LaTreva Dickman

- LaTreva Dickman, Orlando, FL

How many wonderful memories I have of going to Owen's grocery store, to get Byrd's oatmeal cookies! I wish I had a dime for every afternoon that I went there with my mother, Jane Daniel, to pick up meat for dinner that night!!! I never saw Owen, or Lessie for that matter, without a smile on their faces!!! Their love for each other and for God surely was evident by the way they lived their lives together. Owen was truly one of the sweetest, kindest men I've ever known. Even though I haven't seen him recently, I will always cherish those childhood memories of him and Anderson's Grocery store. Love and sympathy to Lessie, Happi, and all of your family. You are all in my prayers, and I will be with you in spirit tomorrow. Thank God for such wonderful, happy memories!

- Jan Daniel Crawford, Virginia Beach,, Va.

I have many fond memories of the Anderson family and the store. My condolences to Happi, her mom, and family.

- Tracy Crouch Penninger, Marietta, Ga

I'm sorry for Bro Anderson's passing. We will miss him very much. I love you, mama!

- Sisa Bujnowski, Frisco, TX

Please accept my deepest sympathy on Bro. Owen's passing. I will always remember our time working with the scouts. And I will never forget how he always called me "you knucklehead."

- Ken Bujnowski, Frisco, TX

Owen Anderson was one of the most wonderful and kind men I ever knew. When I was a kid, I would go to his store and he would have me help him. Because we lived far away from our family, he was like the grandfather I never had. My deepest sympathies go out to his entire family.

- Aaron Bujnowski, Frisco, TX

I have wonderful memories of Owen he was such a sweetheart! I was friends with his daughter and spent time over at her house.He always made me feel welcomed. Prayers to Sister Anderson and Happi, lots of great memories from my teen years!

- Karla Hayslip Morgan , Eagle Mountain, Utah

We will remember Owen Anderson as a great man. Our family was blessed in November to visit with Lessie and Owen in their home. So pleased that our boys got to sit a spell with true southern gentleman. He told some fun stories and the room was filled with laughter. We love the Anderson family and send our love to Lessie and Happy. Love, Teddy, Kathy, David, Nathan, and Jonah Blocker

- Teddy Blocker Family, Springville, UT

So many fond memories of the little store. My best, my nickname "Pickles" by Mr. RADGIO, for all the pickles I ate.

- The Floyd Family & Mrs Lilly Lee grands, Savannah , GA

So many fond memories of the little store. My best, my nickname "Pickles" by Mr. RADGIO, for all the pickles I ate.

- The Floyd Family & Mrs Lilly Lee grands, Savannah , GA

Happy and family my sincere sympathy for the loss of your father. If there was ever a man that you could count on having a smile it was Mr. Anderson. The lessons he taught us as children are lessons that are lost on children off today. How we of Avondale were so blessed to have him and the store. Hopefully he will be making that liver pudding in heaven!

- Rhonda Powell, Smyrna, Ga

My sincere condolences to the Anderson Family on the passing of your dear loved one. May Jehovah God, the God of comfort grant you his peace while you await the fulfillment of his promise at John 5:28(to resurrect those who have been asleep in death. May fond memories of Owen linger in your hearts and bring you peace in the days to come.

- Henry, Lawrenceville, GA

I didn't grow up in the Avondale neighborhood. I met him shortly after I purchased 2125 Texas Ave., the house across the street from his store. What a bonus ( ! ) having the wonderful Mom and Pop store across the street. I got to know Owen over the couple of years I lived there. His sausage was fantastic and cuts of beef were "as you like it." When I moved I missed the wonderful conversations with Owen more than anything. I have thought of him often over the years and have regrets for not staying in touch. Godspeed Mr. Owen...

- Jimmy Wilson, Clyo, ga

I love what Bill Harrison said. "They just don't make them like him anymore." They sure don't. My heart breaks for you Happi and Miss Lessie. He was a wonderful man and will be missed my all that had the honor to know him.

- Charmaine Horne, Savannah, Ga

What a great man, Owen taught me many things that I didn't realize until I was older,thank you mrs. Anderson and Happi for sharing Owen with all of us kids

- David marston, Kingsland, Ga

..like many others, I grew up on food from the store...my Mom, Dot Harrison, was a loyal customer for many years & Owen Anderson was as fine a Southern Gentleman as they come...ALWAYS...we just are not making more like him...God Bless you, Mr. Owen. Peace be with you and your family. The Harrison boys, Barry & Bill

- Bill Harrison, Pembroke Pines, FL

Lived beside the store until I was 13 years old. Me and his nephew Ray would go to the old Coke coolers and get ice from there on hot summer days, Owen never said anything to us for taking the ice. I was driving around Avondale a couple of years ago and seen him walking from his car, I am so glad he lived a long life.

- Joe Williams, Eden, GA

There are so many memories and not enough space to express all Owen and Lessie meant to the Avondale neighborhood. Their love, generosity and kindness will never be forgotten! My heart is very heavy and my deepest sympathy to Mrs. Anderson and Happi.

- Martha Hord Wester. , savannah, Ga

Such a fine man to have looked up to during my childhood in Avondale.....always greeted me with a smile and a RC Cola...a truly great man from my childhood.....God Bless You Mr Anderson....much love forever! Barry

- Barry Johnson, Savannah, Ga

So sorry to hear Bro. Anderson has passed. He was a sweet & caring person & will be missed by many. Prayers & Love to each of you. Marilyn Sturgess hearon

- Marilyn Sturgess Hearon, Midway, Ga.

I remember so much , about Mr Anderson , Cant put all memories on here . One really stands out is when he would slice the bolonie , he would save the butt end for me . I would come through that old back screen door , and he would say , hey boy , i have something for ya . There is not better part of balonie , like the butt . I also remember those 1 cent oat meal cookies . Wow has time changed . Try buying an oatmeal cookie today for a penny

- Elton Stafford, Richmond hill, Ga

I grew up on the corner of Florida and Ohio Avenues in Avondale in the late 50's and 60's. I have long since left Savannah, however my childhood was marked by my frequent trips to Anderson's grocery. Both of the Anderson's were wonderful people and I will always remember their kindness. I also remember clearly when they were happy to announce that they were expecting a daughter. These were truly some blessed days in my childhood. And even though I did not get to see Mr. Anderson, he was frequently discussed in conversations with my brother, Wayne McCullough.

- Linda McCullough Thrift, Nahunta,, GA

I remember so fondly going to his store as a little girl to pick up groceries. He was a kind and honest man. Wow, 96 he lived a long full life. God bless and prayers for his wife and family

- Bonnie McIver, Savannah-Rincon, GA

I have many fond memories of growing up in the 60's and visiting the store for a Coke or RC cola. Mr. Anderson would usually be in the back working on a hunk of beef. Avondale has certainly changed since those days and it was residents like Mr. Owen that made it a great place to live and grow up. He will not be forgotten.

- Bill Harmon, Goose Creek , SC

Aunt Lessie,and Happi. I'm so very sorry to hear about Uncle Owen's passing. He was such a very happy memory of my childhood. Mom and I send our condolences and are keeping y'all in our prayers. With love , Julie and Willa. NeSmith

- Julie NeSmith Tyler, Pooler, Ga

So sorry for your loss. Owen left an abundance of good memories to the families in Avondale. We will uplift your family in prayers. God bless you all.

- Pat Ward, Sandra W Hutton, Jackie Cribbs, Savannah, GA

Services under the direction of:

Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200