Jovada Owens

Jovada Owens, affectionately known as “Jo,” was born on August 6, 1950, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to the late Mary Jane Scott-Bush and Henry Bush. She was the eldest of their children and embraced that role with pride.

From a young age, Jovada was protective, nurturing, and unafraid to step into the “mama bear” position for her siblings.

During her youth, she enjoyed skating and dancing every weekend. Her talent on the dance floor was undeniable—so much so that she and her brother, the late Nathaniel Bush, earned a spot on an episode of American Bandstand during their teenage years. In high school, she continued to shine, frequently participating in and even winning talent shows. During her time at Taft High School, she was voted both “Most Popular” and “Cutest Female,” graduating with the Class of 1969.

Jovada was hardworking throughout her entire life. She began earning money as a babysitter during her younger years, later moving on to her first formal job through CCY. After graduation, she worked for Kroger and eventually for Gibson, where she remained until her retirement in 2010.

Jovada married the love of her life, Lee (Anthony) Owens, on November 10, 2001. The two became inseparable from the moment they met in 1992, building a partnership rooted in love, loyalty, and genuine companionship. In addition to being a devoted wife, Jovada was a nurturing and supportive mother to her three children: Felicia Bush, Michael Bush, and Robert Bush. She was the true matriarch of her family, embracing the “big mama” role not only for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, but also for her nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Her home was the heart of countless memories—legendary house parties filled with music, dancing, card playing, laughter, and love. She loved hosting family dinners and gatherings, and though she was quick to shoo you out of her kitchen, she never pushed anyone out of her heart.

Jovada loved fiercely and unconditionally. She spoke truth without sugarcoating, offering advice that was sometimes stern but always rooted in genuine care. Her family knew that behind every word was a deep desire to see them flourish. She was strong-willed, faithful, and committed to living life on her own terms.

On Sunday, November 9, 2025, Jovada was called into eternal rest with the Lord. She will be remembered for her unwavering strength, her compassion, and the immeasurable love she poured into her family. She was, and will forever remain, the heart of her home—a source of comfort, laughter, and wisdom to all who knew her.

Jovada leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband, Anthony (Lee) Owens; her loving daughter, Felicia Bush; and her two sons, Michael Bush and Robert Bush. She is also survived by her dear sisters, Shelia Gray and Tammie Keys. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Keisha Mayes, Tamika Dawkins, Taylor Lawrence, Brianna Bush, Tiffany Bush, Destiny Lawrence, Apollo Bush, and Michael Jones; and through her beloved greatgrandchildren: Riyel, Savanna, Kensli, Carter, Jah’el, Kyler, and Colin. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will deeply miss her presence.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Mary Jane Scott-Bush and Henry Bush; her siblings, Nathaniel Bush and Betty Bush; and her cherished granddaughter, LaQuasha Mayes.

A Visitation will be held at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals, & Reception, located at 3300 Parkcrest Lane, Cincinnati, Ohio 45211, on Saturday, November 22, 2025, from 11:00 AM until 12:00 PM. Funeral Ceremony will begin at 12:00 PM on Saturday, November 22, 2025.