Jake Owen Pays Tribute to His Granddad Bryan Yancey

Jake Owen Remembers His Beloved Grandfather

Recently, Jake Owen bid farewell to a cherished figure in his life, his grandfather Bryan Yancey Owen, who passed away at the impressive age of 103. To the country musician, Bryan was not merely a grandfather; he was a mentor and a source of wisdom throughout his life.

A Deep Bond

The connection they shared was profound, something Jake has often highlighted in interviews. When asked in October 2025 who the most significant contact in his phone was, he didn’t mention any celebrity friends, but instead referred to his granddad.

“The best number in my phone is my granddad, who’s 103. There’s no one more important to me than him,” Jake shared during an interview on Taste of Country Nights. “He provides wisdom and insight that no one else can. I could call him right now, and he would answer, ‘Hello there, grandson.’”

A Life Well Lived

Even at 103, Bryan lived independently with his wife, who is 102, in Winter Haven, Florida. Jake fondly recalled asking his grandfather the secret to his long life. Bryan’s response was simple yet profound: “I’m grateful… You can’t truly be grateful with a bitter heart.”

Honoring His Legacy

After the loss, Jake honored his grandfather by sharing a heartfelt video on Instagram, performing Randy Travis’ “He Walked on Water.” In the post, he expressed his sorrow, stating, “Lost my Grandaddy recently. Been heavy on my heart. He was an angel on this Earth…” Jake conveyed his belief that Bryan is still watching over the family.

Reflections on Bryan’s Life

Just weeks shy of his 104th birthday, Bryan had celebrated his 102nd birthday in October 2024. During that celebration, Jake penned a tribute reflecting on Bryan’s incredible journey from being born in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, to serving in World War II and later becoming an Executive Vice President of Hays Supply Co.

“You’ve been the guiding star I’ve looked up to since childhood, teaching me what it means to live with intention and heart,” Jake wrote, emphasizing the profound impact Bryan had on his life.

A Love Story for the Ages

In addition to being a grandfather, Bryan had an extraordinary love story with his wife, where they raised four children and had a large family with 11 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Their relationship inspired Jake’s song “Homemade.”

Jake often recounts how his grandparents met when Bryan was on leave from the army in Mumfordville, Kentucky. Their initial encounter blossomed into a beautiful love story lasting 79 years, showcasing the strength of their bond.

Continuing the Legacy

While Jake will no longer receive calls from his grandfather, the lessons, love, and stories Bryan imparted will live on in Jake’s heart and through his music, ensuring that Bryan’s legacy will endure for generations to come.

Source: countrynow.com