Richard Overton

Richard Clyde Overton was born on March 29, 1949, in Baskin, Louisiana, to Emma J. Overton and Jimmie Overton Sr. In 1953, he moved with his family to Houston, Texas, where he grew up and spent most of his life.

As a young child, Richard attended Zion Hill Baptist Church, where he was introduced to faith and the importance of community. He later became a devoted member of Greater Grace Houston under the leadership of Apostle E. L. Usher.

Richard was raised in Houston’s historic Fifth Ward community, affectionately known as “The Nickel,” where he formed many lifelong friendships and memories. He attended local schools and proudly graduated from Phyllis Wheatley High School in 1968.

In July of 1971, Richard married Drucilla Alix, whom he affectionately referred to as “The First Mrs. Overton.” From this union, two daughters were born, Dichelle and Kina.

Also in 1971, Richard began his career as a bus driver for Hou Tran. In 1979, the company transitioned to Metro, where he faithfully served the Houston community for 30 years. His most well known routes included the #1, the #52 Scott, and the #163 Fondren. Through his work he met countless people and often shared the love of God with those he encountered.

On June 29, 1991, Richard married Joyce Smith. Together they shared over 35 years of marriage built on love, commitment, and companionship.

Richard enjoyed staying active. He loved jogging and especially looked forward to playing basketball every Saturday.

On March 4, 2026, Richard peacefully went home to be with the Lord.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Emma and Jimmie Overton Sr.; his brothers Cardell, Frank, Charlie, and Jimmie Jr.; and his sister Jessie Lee Green.

Richard leaves to cherish his loving memory his beloved wife, Joyce Overton; his devoted daughter Dichelle Hogues and son in law James Hogues Jr., and their daughters Destini and Kara; his loving daughter Kina Overton and her children Knoa Overton Linzy and Kloe Perez; his son Michael W. Rucker Jr., and his grandsons Michael W. Rucker III and Michael Elijah Rucker, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

A Visitation will be held at Greater Grace Houston, 3225 W Orem Dr, Houston, TX 77045, US, on March 14, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a Celebration of Life at the same location on March 14, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

A Committal Service will take place at Paradise Cemetery North, 10401 West Montgomery, Houston, TX 77088, US, on March 14, 2026, from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm, and a Simple Gathering will be held at Progressive New Hope Church, 3106 Paige St, Houston, TX 77004, US, on March 14, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm.