James Rickie Overturf

James Rickie Overturf of Copperas Cove passed away on February 27th 2026 at his home surrounded by his family. James was a devoted Husband, Father, and Grandfather who lived a life defined by his service to his country, his strength of character and his love of family.

Rick was a Veteran of the United States Army who hailed from Columbus, Ohio. He entered service beginning with a tour in Vietnam in 1967 as an Infantryman where he was awarded the Purple Heart to his retirement from the Army as a Sergeant First Class (E-7) in 1988 at Fort Hood, Texas.

Upon retirement from the Army, Rick earned a Bachelors of Arts in Accounting from the University of Mary Hardin Baylor in which he worked for the state of Texas Board of Education as an Auditor. In addition Rick was an active participant in local veteran organizations for many years. After retiring for a second time James found an interest in collecting baseball cards and other collectibles.

Above all, Rick was family man. He is survived by his wife Julia of 57 years, daughter Beth Ann, son Rickie and wife Iris, son Chris and wife Cindy, and daughter Cynthia and husband Mick.

He was also a proud “Pawpaw” to Brent, Shauna, Jefferey, Ava, Audrey, Hanna, Julianna, and Elijah. Each of Rick’s grandchildren brought him so much joy and excitement and it was always a highlight of his day whenever he was around them.

Rick will be sorely missed and remembered for his steady strength, deep loyalty, and the love he so freely shared with his family. Rick’s legacy of courage, sacrifice and devotion to country and family will live on forever in all our hearts and to all who knew him.

He will be laid to rest with full military honors in recognition of his service to his country in the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen, Texas on March 18th at 1pm.

In Lieu of Flowers

In honor of his service and sacrifice, the family asks that memorial donations be made in memory of SFC James Rickie Overturf, Purple Heart Recipient, to the Purple Heart Foundation, Wounded Warrior Project, Disabled American Veterans (DAV) or another veteran organization of your choice.