James William “Bill” Owings, Jr., age 74, of Blythewood, South Carolina, passed away peacefully at his home with his family on April 10, 2026.
Visitation will be held on April 24, 2026, at 10:00 am with a Celebration of Life to follow at 11:00 am at Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel.
Bill was born in Greenville, SC on July 20, 1951, to Jim and Dorothy Owings where he attended Wade Hampton High School. He served in the Army Reserves before moving to Columbia, SC where he began what would become a 50-year career in the men’s clothing industry. He founded Granger Owings and Bill Owings Custom Clothing in Columbia. He built a legacy truly defined by hard work, dedication, and lasting relationships that spanned decades. He didn’t just have customers, they were friends. He was a mentor to many and highly thought of by all in his industry. Ever the salesman, he would sell you the sport coat he was wearing if it could be tailored to fit.
Bill was a beloved father to his three children: Tripp Owings (Beth) of Camden, SC; Ginny Causey (Chris) of Westwood, MA; and Laura Malloy (Michael) of Cayce, SC. He instilled in his children a love for the Lord, his strong work ethic, his spirit of warmth, generosity and kindness, and his joy for life. He was a grandfather to 6 beautiful grandchildren who he adored. He attended countless baseball games and exuded pride when he spoke of each of them.
Outside of his work and family, Bill had a deep love for the game of golf and cherished the time he spent on the course with friends he loved dearly. He is remembered as a legend at Cobblestone Park and was lovingly referred to as “Dollar Bill” by his men’s group.
Bill will be remembered for his generosity, his joyful sense of humor and wit, his calm, steady presence, and an unwavering love for hot dogs. He was often the best dressed man in the room and had a true passion for men’s clothing. He loved others well and was loved well in return.
Along with his children, he is survived by his 6 Grandchildren, Catie Jane Owings, Cort Owings, Ella Causey, Garrett Owings, Hayden Owings, and Henry Causey; his former wife, Jane Owings; his sister, Susan Wollin (Jim); and an abundance of friends who called him family.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Bill will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.