Richard Allen "Big O" Overton

Macclesfield -

With his loving family by his side, Richard Allen “Big O” Overton, age 77, passed away peacefully at his home in Macclesfield, North Carolina, on Saturday, October 11, 2025.

Born on June 14, 1948, in Bertie County, Richard was the son of the late Joseph Elwood and Gladys Butler Overton. A proud veteran, he served his country honorably in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.

Richard devoted the majority of his life to the automotive industry, where he owned and operated body shops, salvage yards, and car dealerships specializing in Chevrolet trucks. Known for his mechanical knowledge, sharp negotiating skills, and the Friday lunches he hosted at his shop that drew friends from all over the community, “Big O” was truly one of a kind. He built not only a successful business but also lasting friendships across eastern North Carolina.

Outside of work, Richard found joy in the outdoors. He was an avid hunter, especially of quail in his earlier years and deer in his later years, and loved freshwater fishing. His time in the woods or on the water brought him peace, connection with the people he enjoyed the most, and a break from the ones he didn’t.

He is survived by his devoted wife of fifty-four years, Merle Fleming Overton; daughters Kimberly Overton Spahos (Chuck) and Kelli Overton Gilly (Kevin); cherished granddaughters Hannah and Sarah Grace; and bonus grandchildren Jameson and Shelby Gilly. He is also survived by his brother James Overton; brothers-in-law David Fleming (Melissa), Donnie Skinner, and Jessie Fleming (Jane); sister-in-law Denise Key; and a host of nieces and nephews. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to his special caregiver and friend, Nancy Harrell, for her loving care and companionship.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his in-laws, Murry and Helen Fleming; brother, Melvin Overton; sister, Betty Dunlow; and sister-in-law, Lois Skinner.

A celebration of Richard’s life will be held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at Eagles Baptist Church in Macclesfield, with visitation at 12:30 p.m. and the service beginning at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow at the Hearne Family Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial gifts be made to the Eagles Baptist Church, We Care Fund, 226 NC HWY 124 W, Macclesfield, NC 27852. 

Family and friends are invited to gather to remember a man who always waved when you met him on the road, held a grudge like no other, and had a sly smile that could light up a room.

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