Joseph Robert Overton left for heaven on November 30, 2010.
His wife of sixty-five years, Rubye Graham, preceded him in death this past summer. He is survived by his children, Larry and Nancy Overton, Phyllis and Jack Copeland, David Overton, Jr, and Janice Branson. He is also survived by his four grandchildren Rev. Larry Overton, Robin Mowers, Shannon Wilson, and Johnna Bullard, their spouses, and twelve great grandchildren.
He was born May 4, 1920 and lived in Anderson County all his life, but as a young man ventured to work in Baltimore, to serve his country in the Army, and to work in Oak Ridge after the war. As a member of Deep Springs Baptist Church, he directed music, helped teach singing schools with shaped notes, and raised his children there. He had a natural talent for singing and playing guitar and keyboards.
Later, he was a land surveyor and a charter member of the Tennessee Association of Surveyors. He spent many days in Nashville and all over the state helping to establish state licensure for Tennessee land surveyors. He loved genealogy and the restoration and preservation of family cemeteries in his Anderson County community. He authored his book, The Overton's of Anderson County Tennessee and their Cox Cousins, in 1993.
He and Rubye were champions in their long battle with his Alzheimer's Disease, and he was cared for daily by her, his children and the staff of Golden Living Windwood. His family expresses their warm gratitude to the staff and administration of Windwood who cared for him professionally and were true friends to both him and Rubye during his long stay there. Contributions in his honor can be made to the Alzheimer's Association or charity of choice.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, December 2, 2010 from 6-8PM at the Holley-Gamble Funeral Home with funeral service at 8:00PM in the chapel with Rev. Larry Overton, Jr. officiating.
Family & friends will meet on Saturday, December 4th at 10:00AM at Woodhaven Memorial Gardens for graveside services. Pallbearers will be Rick Graham, Eric Mowery, Patrick Wilson, Christopher Gray, Will Bullard, Mike Myers, Eric Bellamy, and Paul Graham. Holley-Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton is in charge of the arrangements