Richard "Dick" Overman (January 20, 1929 – February 1, 2025)

Reverend Dr. Richard Overman passed away peacefully at home on February 1, 2025 at the age of 96. Born on January 20, 1929, at Presbyterian Hospital in Los Angeles, Dick lived a life dedicated to faith, family, education, and service.

Dick was the son of Wallace Leroy Overman and Ruth Hinson Overman. He grew up in Glendale, California, with his younger siblings, Robert Dean, who died at age 6, and Ruthann. The loss of his younger brother in 1937 remained a defining memory, and he treasured his close relationship with Ruthann throughout their lives.

A bright and curious student, Dick attended Glendale public schools before earning his undergraduate and medical degrees from Stanford University. His initial career path led him to medicine, but his deep spiritual calling drew him toward theological studies. He earned a Master of Theology from the Southern California School of Theology and a Ph.D. in Theology and Philosophy of Religion from Claremont Graduate School. His dissertation, Evolutionary Theory and the Christian Doctrine of Creation, was later published, reflecting his lifelong engagement with both science and faith.

In 1955, Dick served in the U.S. Air Force Medical Corps, stationed in King Salmon, Alaska. There, he found ways to serve beyond his medical duties, flying with public health nurses to treat children in remote villages and organizing Sunday church trips for fellow servicemen. Afterward, he returned to academia, joining the University of Puget Sound as a professor of religion in 1965, where he taught for 28 years, inspiring generations of students before retiring in 1993.

In 1958, Dick married Phyllis Joan Chamberlin, the love of his life. Together, they built a home in University Place, Washington, where they raised their two children, Robert and Leah. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, sharing his love of music, theology, and history with his family. His home improvement projects—spanning decades—were a testament to his craftsmanship and perseverance.

A man of deep faith, Dick was active in church communities throughout his life, singing in choirs and serving where needed. He and Phyllis found their spiritual home at Faith Presbyterian Church in their later years, cherishing the liturgical traditions and friendships they found there.

Dick is survived by his wife, Phyllis; his children, Robert (Arlene) Overman and Leah (David) Wegener; his grandchildren, Alex, Evan, Noa Grace, Henry (Katie), and Jacob; his sister Ruthann's children Richard (Laraine) Evans and Anna (Marty) Ramseier, a cousin Steve (Peg) Donner, and many cherished friends.

A memorial service will be held at Faith Presbyterian Church in Tacoma on February 8 at 1:00, where family and friends will gather to celebrate his remarkable life. A graveside service will be held on Monday, Feb. 10 at 1:00 at New Tacoma Cemetery in University Place, Washington.