Mona "Nunnie" (Nicholson) Owens–devoted mother of four, grandmother of twelve, and great-grandmother of twenty-five– passed away Wednesday, September 27, 2023, surrounded by her family.

Mona was born on Sept 22, 1933, in Deport, Texas (Lamar Co) to Nick and Hazel (Nobles) Nicholson at the home of Arthur "Big" and Georgia Nobles, her maternal grandparents. It is amazing to know this tiny baby and only child, who fit in her grandfather's shoe box, would go on to create such a large and loving family.

Early in 1934, Mona's mother and father left for Dallas, leaving her behind with Big and Georgia. Their farm in Deport would be Mona's home for the next eighteen years until she left for Denton's North Texas State College in 1951. During her childhood, Mona rode horses, winning five barrel races at local rodeos. She also enjoyed playing piano, making first team in basketball as a forward (teammates lovingly called her "the frog"), being in one act plays, and participating in softball as shortstop. Nunnie later became a lifelong fan of the Texas Rangers baseball team.

During her first semester of college, Mona met Bill Grisham of Denton who was also a student at North Texas. On Dec 22, 1951, Mona and Bill were married at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church. They made their home in Denton and raised four children: Sherry, Randy, Sondra, and Shelli. All four children graduated from Denton High School. In 1968, Mona and Bill were divorced.

Mona went to work for the first time as receptionist of Elm St. Hospital and Clinic. With the help of Dr. Robert H. Nobles, she learned the ropes of hospital work. She was hired as administrator of Silver Leaves Nursing Home in 1971.  Also in 1971, Mona met James "Jimmy" Whitney Owens, co-founder of B&O Service Station in Denton. The two were married on April 2, 1971, in Nichols Chapel of First Baptist Church. This was one of the most loving marriages. Jimmy and Mona worked together, owning several rental properties in Denton. Jimmy passed away in April 2013. Mona missed him every day.

Mona enjoyed playing Bridge with her friends, painting, crossword puzzles, babysitting, and several other fun things. Throughout the years, Nunnie and Jimmy went all out for the holidays. They hosted many celebrations and family gatherings at their cabin in Gainesville Boat Club on Lake Texoma and at their home in Denton. Nunnie's family was everything to her. From the newest of her great grandbabies to each one of her spoiled dogs and cats over the years, she was like no other when it came to unconditional love. She wanted everyone to get along. She valued honesty and good homemaking. She was not afraid to tell it like it is. She will be missed beyond words, but we find strength in knowing she is reunited with the loves of her life. Rest easy, Nunnie. You will always be our Queen.

Mona leaves behind a legacy expanding multiple generations. She is survived by her daughter Sherry (Grisham) Mellgren, son Randy (Marsha) Grisham, and all her many grandchildren.

Services will be held on Saturday, October 7, 2023, at DeBerry Funeral Home in Denton, Texas. Visitation is at 12 noon, with the funeral following at 2pm. Mona will be entombed beside her beloved Jimmy at Roselawn Memorial Park.