AHOSKIE – Larry Shields Overton, of Ahoskie and Winston-Salem, died on May 28th in his home while his family held hands and sang hymns.

He was truly a great and wonderful husband, father, churchman, and lawyer. The embodiment of a southern gentleman, he was contented and grateful for life, home, farm, friends and family.  He loved nothing better than cooking and gardening with his children and little cousins next door.  He loved wearing bowties.  He was a fabulous raconteur. He cherished the bonds of friendship. He doted on his family.  He lived life with dignity.

He was committed to the Town of Ahoskie, Wake Forest University, St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church and the greater Episcopal Church beyond, including election five times as Deputy to General Convention and holding many lay positions in his parish and diocese.  To church and community he felt the utmost sense of duty and service.

When health issues impaired his career, he embraced a transition to Winston-Salem and became involved as best he could with Salem Academy, St. Paul’s, Wake Forest, and the rescue of one historic garden.

He leaves behind a loving family – wife, Betsy Overton; daughter, Wynne Overton; and son, Shields Overton.

Born in 1952 to Thad Shields and Florence Overton, both deceased, he has sisters Sherry (and Bo) Graham and Debbie (and Bill) Magette; brother Kent (and Jo Ann) Overton; in-laws Amy and Kenny Braswell; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He taught his wife and children much about patience, gratitude, grace, contentment, kindness, sacrifice, responsibility, and love.

A Memorial Service is planned for July 16 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Winston-Salem.  Any memorial contributions may be sent to the Hospice and Palliative Care Center of Winston-Salem, the Music Ministry of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, the Wake Forest School of Law Charley Rose Scholarship, or a charity of choice.