AARP Tennessee Mourns The Loss of a Community Leader

Today, we mourn the loss of a community leader and former AARP Tennessee State President Cleo Owens.

Cleo served in the state’s top volunteer role from November 2012 through December 2014. He was the first African-American state president in AARP Tennessee’s history. Cleo’s leadership continues to have a lasting impact on AARP’s work throughout the state.

Through this sad news, we reflect on the light Cleo brought to both staff and volunteer leaders with his spirit and passion for helping people 50+ and their families.

“Cleo was a tireless advocate for AARP, always thinking of how we could reach more people with education and information,” Rebecca Kelly, AARP Tennessee state director, said. “He was intelligent, intuitive and a man of unequaled integrity.  He was a man of great faith, love for his family and a strong desire to give back to his community, region and state.”

He will be missed for all of the reasons listed above - and many more.