Christine J. Owens, known lovingly to family and friends as Chrissy, passed away Aug. 17, 2026, at the age of 55. She was a kind and loving woman whose warmth, generosity and gentle spirit touched many lives.
Born Dec. 28, 1970, in Red Bank, Christine was the daughter of Kathy Schaufler and the late William Schaufler. She was raised in Hazlet and later made her home in Sea Bright for many years before settling in Belford six years ago. Throughout her life, she carried with her the values of family, compassion, and loyalty, and she remained deeply connected to the people and places that shaped her.
Chrissy will be remembered most for the love she gave so freely to those around her. She was a devoted fiancée, mother, sister, grandmother and friend, and she took great pride in the family she helped build.
She is survived by her fiancée, Brad Renner; her mother, Kathy; and her six children, Kali Owens, Brian Schaufler, Jared Owens, Jeremy Owens, Quintin Owens and Anthony Owens, along with their father, Brian Owens. She also leaves behind her brother, William “Billy” Schaufler; her sister, Elise Stultz; and her three beloved grandchildren, Jackson, Julian and James. Her family was the center of her world, and she cherished every moment spent with them.
Chrissy had a deep love for animals and a special tenderness toward all living creatures. She cared for the stray cats in her neighborhood and found joy in befriending the wildlife in her yard. Her compassion extended naturally to the animals she encountered, and she had a way of making even the most timid creatures feel safe. This gentle connection to the world around her reflected the loving nature that defined her life.
She was also an excellent cook, and she expressed her care through the meals she prepared for others. Whether cooking for family gatherings or simply sharing something homemade with those she loved, Chrissy brought comfort and joy to the table. Her kitchen was often a place of warmth, laughter and togetherness, and many will remember her through the meals and memories she created there.
Chrissy especially loved being on the water and spending time at the beach. The ocean brought her peace and happiness, and she found comfort in the beauty and rhythm of the shore.
She also enjoyed watching horror movies, a pastime that reflected her fun-loving side and her appreciation for simple pleasures.
Sunflowers were among her favorite things, and their bright, cheerful presence suited her personality well. She had a way of bringing light into the lives of others, much like the flowers she loved.
Those who knew Chrissy will remember her as a loving and kind woman whose presence made life brighter. She had a caring heart, a thoughtful nature and a quiet strength that carried her through life with grace. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and all who were fortunate enough to know her. Though she will be deeply missed, the love she shared and the kindness she showed will remain a lasting part of her legacy.
The service for Christine will be private, but if memorial donations are welcome to the MCSPCA at monmouthcountyspca.org.
The article originally appeared in the September 10 – 16, 2026 print edition of The Two River Times.
