John B. Overton

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John B. Overton, 89, of Ottawa, KS on Monday, October 14, 2024. Surrounded by his family, John was a beloved father, Navy veteran, and accomplished pilot who leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and adventure that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

John was born March 26, 1935, in New York, New York to William and Katherine (Dunne) Overton and he grew up with a deep sense of duty and an unquenchable curiosity for the skies. John graduated from Cardinal Farley Military Academy in Rhinecroft, NY in 1951 and later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from Villanova University in Villanova, PA in 1957.

John’s passion for aviation led him to serve his country in the United States Navy.  Commissioned as an Ensign from 1957 to 1959, John completed a flight training program and was then commissioned as a LTJG in the United States Naval Reserves. As a LTJG from 1959 to 1961, John attended CIC School, Naval Justice School, and worked as a Naval Aviation Observer/Controller. John completed his active duty commitment and received an honorable discharge in 1961.

After his time in the Navy, John continued to pursue his love of flying, achieving a commercial pilot rating and sharing his knowledge and love of flying with all. As a member of Cann Memorial Presbyterian Church in Elizabeth City, NC and the Beech Aero Club, John’s stories of flight—both in service and in peace—captivated those around him, giving everyone a glimpse into the world above the clouds that he cherished so deeply.  In the private sector, John paired his love of airplanes and his degree to work as a Director of Procurement with Beechcraft in Wichita, Kansas.

Beyond his professional achievements, John will be most remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family. John was united in marriage to Kathleen Keough on November 24, 1962, in Mount Prospect, IL, sharing over sixty-one years of marriage. John and Kathleen’s bond was a testament to the enduring power of love, support, and companionship. Together, they built a life filled with joy, laughter, and resilience, standing by each other’s side through every challenge and triumph.

John was preceded in death by his parents, William and Katherine Overton; two sisters, Claire Armata and Joan Hemingway.

Surviving family includes his wife, Kathleen Overton of Ottawa, KS; two sons, John P. “Sean” Overton and wife, Michelle of Overland Park, KS and Geoffrey R. Overton of Omaha, NE; a daughter, Hilary A. Crist and husband, Kyle of Centropolis,KS; and ten grandchildren, Matthew, Zachary, Emily, Caleb, Joseph, Claire, William, Kellan, Simon, and Katie Jane.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the compassionate staff at Meadowbrook Rehabilitation Hospital in Gardner, KS and Prairie Wind Hospice in Baldwin City, KS for their exceptional care and support. Cremation is planned and a private family celebration of John’s life will be held at a later date.

Although he has taken his final flight, John’s spirit soars in the hearts of his loved ones, and his memory will live on in the skies he loved so much. Fair winds and following seas, LTJG Overton. You will be dearly missed.

Memorial contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation or the Tunnels to Towers Foundation and sent ℅ Lamb-Roberts-Price Funeral Home, 325 S. Hickory, P.O. Box 14, Ottawa, KS 66067. Condolences may be sent to the family through www.lamb-roberts.com.

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