In memory of Jimmy Owen – Heritage Number 724

Warrington Wolves were very sad to hear of the death of Jimmy Owen on 7 July 2022, aged 78, who died suddenly after a short illness whilst on holiday in Tenerife.

He was a player who made only one substitute appearance for Warrington, in October 1971. At that time Warrington were in the middle of an eight-match losing run and a crippling injury list. So new recruits were desperately needed.

Jimmy was playing rugby union for Baglan RFC at the time and was spotted by Dennis Maddock the Warrington scout in Wales. Jimmy was given a trial in the first team, away at Hull on Saturday 30^th October 1971. He made his own way to the game, sleeping overnight in his car…not ideal preparation for a professional game! It was no surprise that Warrington lost 23-5.

Jimmy gave a lifetime of service to Baglan RFC, a Welsh rugby union team, as Player, Captain, Coach, Secretary and President. After his rugby league trial Jimmy furthered his rugby union career by joining Aberavon RFC.

He was a formidable prop forward for Aberavon in the 1970’s and was well respected by Welsh rugby greats such as Sir Gareth Edwards, and the late Phil Bennett. His team-mates included Frank Reynolds, Mike Nicholas, Clive Jones and Denis Curling, who all signed for Warrington. He played in the 1974 and 1975 Welsh cup finals, Aberavon lost to Llanelli on both occasions.

Mike Nicholas who had worked with Jimmy at Baglan Bay refinery attended Jimmy’s funeral service, which took place on Friday 29^th July at Margam Crematorium.

The Club send their condolences to wife Joanie, children David and Jacquelyn, family and friends.

Obituary: Jimmy Owen