Owen F. Overton, Jr.
Overton, Owen F., Jr.
Entered his Lord’s loving presence on his 78th birthday, March 6, 2010 after a long struggle with a rare form of cancer. Owen was born in Mountain Pine, AR in 1932. After graduating from Hot Springs High School, he served in the U. S. Army at the time of the Korean conflict. He graduated from Little Rock University and from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Ft. Worth, TX. Owen was an electrical journeyman lineman for Arkansas Power & Light and Arizona Public Service as well as Safety-consultant. He then was the Safety Supervisor for the Central Arizona Division of Southwest Gas. After retiring from SWG, he was a Consultant for Northern Pipeline. Owen was also a commercial pilot and a flight instructor. But his favorite life work was as a well-loved, bi-vocational pastor of small churches: Murphy Baptist Church, Plano, TX; 1st Baptist Church, Indian Springs, NV; White Tanks Baptist Church; West Glendale Baptist Church; and 107th Ave. Baptist Church, all here in the Valley.
Owen is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Shirli, and four children: Joni Huff, Robert (Nancy); Tammy Schaapman (Garret), and James, as well as grandchildren Rob and Ron Huff; Aaron and Lauren Overton; Dan Camara; Katherine and Nathan Schaapman; and Aliesha Dream Overton. His sister, Reba Bates of Memphis, TN, also survives him as well as many nieces and nephews.
Our family will be forever grateful for the loving care of Hospice of the Valley, Team T, and the entire organization for all their excellent care and compassion.
A memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church, Sun City, 11019 West Peoria Ave., Sun City, AZ on Thursday at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, Owen asked that contributions be made in his name to the American Cancer Society.
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Dear Shirli and Family,
I was saddened to learn of Owen’s passing. You have my utmost sympathy in this moment. Owen was a good man and always a joy to be in his company. There was never a dull moment with Owen he was the best at telling stories and had a great sense of humor. When Owen left APS to work for SWG his presence was greatly missed.
Tom Kennedy
I was lucky enough to work with Owen in the Administration Dept. at SWG for some years until he retired. And he helped me with my not very good golf game on a few occasions. He was truly a wonderful, warm friend and will always have a place in my heart. My sincerest sympathy and prayers for your family.
I had the privilege to work with Owen at SWG and I can’t tell you how many times he made me laugh with his wonderful sense of humor. He will always be in my heart. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Dear Shirli and family,
I was shocked to hear of Owen’s death. We had talked on the phone several times, encouraging each other in our difficult situations. We had talked of getting together for a golf game when we both were able.
You and the entire Overton family will be in my prayers. One day there’s going to be a great reunion!
Charlie Brannon
I knew Owen at both APS and SWG. He was truly an honorable man. I always knew that whatever he told me, I could trust and believe. I guess the Lord didn’t have enough safety personnel, so now he’s got the best.
Joni & Family,
Please accept my sincerest sympathy in the loss of your father. I know how difficult it is to lose a parent. May you and your family find solace in your memories and the love you share for each other.
Bob, we are sorry to hear of the death of your Dad. We know he had been struggling and our Messenger SS class has prayed for your family. May God’s peace surround you.
Dear Joni and Family,
The thoughts and prayers of your AEA family are with you in this time of sorrow. We can only hope that the loving memories of your father sustain you through this difficult time.
With our condolences,
Your AEA colleagues on the Board of Directors
My memories of working with Owen at Southwest Gas are very dear to my heart. He was always one of my favorites! Heaven definitely has another “special angel”! Strength & peace to the Overton family in the days ahead!
Shirli and Family. As a brand new Supervisor in Phoenix in 1984 thru1990, Owen and I had our disagreements. He was from APS and I had always worked for SWG. (kinda of an oil an water thing.) Through the years I grew to admire and respect Owen. He had a kind heart and a great sense of humor. I enjoyed the time we spent together playing golf. Another veteran must have been needed in Heaven.
I salute his service to his Country and the times we shared.
With sincere condolences. Rick
Joni & family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Your father is in a better place now. He is so lucky to have a loving family. The treasured memories you have of your Dad will always be with you. You have my sincere sympathy.
Nancy Putman
Joni and family,
My prayers are with you today and in the days ahead as you mourn your father’s recent passing. He must have been an extra special man and I’m sure you have many wonderful memories to keep close to your heart. Sending hugs your way……
Remembering Owen brings back many great memories. I was a friend and classmate in high school and my husband, Aldon, played football with him. Our prayers are with the family and we will all meet again in a greater place.
May God Bless You,
Mary Lee and Aldon Thompson