A. Joann "Jodi" (Robinson) Overton

A. Joann "Jodi" Overton (Robinson) was born to Joseph and Shirley Robinson (Williams) on November 6, 1947, in Harrisburg, PA, where she embarked on a life rich in the hearts of those she touched. Growing up in the warm embrace of the Steelton community and the fond memories of Sumter, South Carolina, with her grandparents, Thomas, and Joanna "East" Robinson, Jodi’s life was a testament to the power of family, faith, and community. A graduate of Central Dauphin East Senior High School in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and the Harrisburg Hospital School of Nursing, Joann became a registered nurse. In her first year of nursing school, Joann was crowned Miss Tan of Harrisburg, demonstrating her beauty inside and out. A lifelong learner, Joann was always looking for something new to add to her toolbox, including studying scriptures, Mandarin, quilting, and using her multiple cell phones and Facebook pages. As a child, she gave her life to Christ and attended Monumental AME Church in Steelton, where she continued to attend with her children, singing in the choir, and participating in prayer meetings and Bible studies. Joann later joined St. Paul's Missionary Baptist Church where she loved her pastor and church family. She was married to William M. Overton, Jr., Esq. and their union brought forth three beautiful children, Shileste, BJ, and Karina. What mattered most to Jodi was her family. She loved her children and was very proud of who they were as individuals and often repeated the mantra, "After I am gone, all you have is each other." She instilled in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren the need to know and understand their African and African American history and culture. Some of the family's greatest memories are of her hosting Kwanzaa and seeing her African art, sculptures, and robust library. Joann also believed that everyone she met was family, adopting many as sons, daughters, cousins, and grandchildren, extending her love and care to all. She leaves behind a rich tapestry of memories and traditions, instilling the importance of faith, heritage, and unity. “Jodi,” as she was affectionately called by her colleagues, had a heart that overflowed with love and compassion, leading her to a fulfilling career as a nurse at Harrisburg Hospital, Woodland Lodge, Harrisburg State Hospital, and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, retiring in 2008 to provide care for her first granddaughter. Giving back was something she believed in greatly; she traveled to Belize on a mission trip to help others using her nursing experience and was also known to share her nursing skills with family and friends who needed it. Joann’s advocacy knew no bounds, as she tirelessly championed for those without a voice, participating in anti-apartheid rallies, voter registration campaigns, and serving as a certified Dauphin County Department of Aging Resident Advocate. Her commitment to service extended beyond her professional life as she actively engaged in numerous civic, community, and religious organizations, including Red Hatters, Pinochle Bugs, Purpose Driven Women of Zion, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. DREAM Showcase, and Black Women's Caucus. Joann loved yard sales, diners, and the arts! She was her happiest when she was out with friends, sewing, or performing in Signature Productions. She enjoyed jazz and was a member of the Central Pennsylvania Friends of Jazz and loved attending the Dauphin County Jazz Festival. Beyond her personal and professional accomplishments, Joann was a source of love and strength. Her infectious laughter, genuine empathy, and unwavering support touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. She approached every interaction with authenticity, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those she encountered. Joann, a beacon of love and light, gracefully completed her earthly journey on May 28, 2024, at the age of seventy-six. While her daughter, Karina Overton, preceded her in death in 2015, her spirit continues to shine brightly in the memories they shared as a family. Joann is survived by her cherished daughter, Dr. Shileste Overton Morris (Honorable Royce L Morris); her devoted son, William Joseph "BJ" Overton (Nicola); her dear brother, Avery Robinson; and sister-friend, Delores Morton, all of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Her legacy will be honored and cherished by her grandsons, Terrell and Troy McCraw, Christian and R. Ian Morris (Ashia), and William J. "Chico" Overton; and granddaughters, Janiyah McLaughlin and Sanai "Sugas" Overton. She was GiGi Mom to seven great-grandchildren, Mia, Caliana, Terrell Jr., Terrian, Terriel, Royce Harmony, and Kairos; Goddaughters, Michelle and Giovanna Hughes, Jazmine Morton and Ayana Herbert. Joann is deeply missed by a host of relatives and friends whom she loved with all her heart. In lieu of flowers, donations should be made to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, 1400 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560. - https//nmaahc.si.edu FAMILY AND FRIENDS ARE ENCOURAGED TO CLICK ON THE SHARE A MEMORY TAB TO POST VIDEOS, SHARE MEMORIES, CONDOLENCES, REFLECTIONS OR SIMPLY LEAVE YOUR NAME.

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A. Joann "Jodi" (Robinson) Overton

November 6, 1947 - May 28, 2024