Mrs. Carlene Ownbey Filler

Carlene Rice Ownbey Filler passed away on Thursday, November 26, 2020, at the age of 88. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

Except for a few years relating to educational pursuits, Carlene was born, grew up, worked, worshiped, raised her family, and lived in the Sand Mountain/Trenton, Georgia area. Carlene, and her physician husband, Jud, lived and were involved in the community their entire working careers and beyond. They had a special love for their churches (Ownbey Chapel in Ider and Floral Crest in Bryant) and the local church school where their children attended (Floral Crest in Bryant).

Carlene was proud of her Sand Mountain heritage and the medical efforts of her husband, Dr. Judson C Filler and her father, Dr. Roscoe E. Ownbey. A registered nurse, Carlene worked in both of their offices, as well as numerous other healthcare settings over the years. As the family grew, priorities shifted to that of a mother. She raised four children and was particularly known for reading bedtime stories to them in the evenings. They would beg her not to stop reading, even when her eyes were weary from a very full day. “Ok, just one more.”

Mrs. Filler was an excellent speller and good with numbers. She was an optimist and liked seeing new places and trying new things. She loved to travel, but didn’t do it nearly as much as she would have liked. More than anything, she loved family get-togethers. Nothing pleased her more than her children coming together for any occasion. She would look forward to those times for weeks in advance. She passed away on Thanksgiving Day, perhaps the biggest family day of the year for her.

A natural and talented pianist, Carlene had a lovely touch when playing and rarely utilized sheet music. For many years she skillfully and faithfully played piano and organ for church services. Family and friends enjoyed many songs in her home over the years as she performed her favorites, such as “Sentimental Journey” and “Que Sera Sera.” Carlene played up until very recently and brought much joy to those around her.

Carlene Ownbey Filler is survived by her son, Steven Judson Filler (Kay Keenan Filler) (Birmingham, AL), daughters Cynthia Filler Vann (Thomas Vann) (Bryant, AL), Karen Marie Filler (Harrison, TN), and Melissa Michelle Filler (Trenton, GA). Grandchildren include Harrison Filler, Tyler Williams, Vladimir Purdey, Ilya Purdey, and Andie Purdey. She is preceded in death by her husband of almost 68 years, Judson C. Filler, her parents Roscoe E. Ownbey and Grace Marie Ownbey, and brother Idris E. Ownbey.

It is unfortunate that Carlene’s death would come at a time when a viral disease continues threatening our world. Because of COVID-19 there will not be visitation or a public funeral. Instead, you are invited to recount fond memories and share them on this tribute page. At an appropriate time in the future, a memorial is planned. We welcome fond remembrances and your prayers.