Melvin "Lionel" Overton

Lionel was born on September 29, 1940 in Edenton, NC to Oscar A. Overton and Maggie B. Overton (deceased).  He was the fourth of six children.  Lionel developed a love for animals and raised chickens, dogs, and the family-owned horse, “Snowball“. Lionel helped to oversee their family’s Dry Cleaning Business, “The Overton Cleaners”.    He graduated from D.F. Walker High School in 1959 and then attended North Carolina A & T State University where he received his Bachelor of Science in Music Education.

As a music student, Lionel played several instruments and developed his love for singing.  He worked as a music teacher in Cape Charles, VA where he met the love of his life, Dorothy.  Dorothy and Lionel relocated to Chestertown, MD and were married in 1967.  The newlyweds moved to the DC area shortly after.  He then became a music teacher in Montgomery County Public Schools. 

After several years as a teacher, Lionel obtained his Master of Arts in Guidance and Counseling from Bowie State University. As a school counselor, Lionel loved working with young people and developed several mentoring groups to assist them.  Lionel worked as a school counselor until his retirement in 2002. 

Lionel used his gifts to minister through singing his entire life.  He sang in many church services, weddings, and homegoing services.  God used him as an instrument to spread the gospel.  Lionel faithfully accepted his calling. 

Lionel was a true servant of the Lord.  He served as a trustee at Clinton AME Zion Church in Rockville, MD and traveled for gospel performances.  Lionel sang with the Adoration Choir and the Men’s Choir at Kingdom Fellowship AME.  He was also a proud member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, “Mighty” Mu Nu Chapter in Montgomery County, MD. 

Lionel will be missed by his wife of fifty-six years, Dorothy; two sons, Sean (wife Porsha) and Kareef (wife Brandi); five granddaughters, Ayanna, Bianca, Briana, Harper, and Shayla; Brother Oscar, Sister Barbara Rose (husband Howard). Three sister in laws, Irene, Mary, and Patrinola Horton; brother in law, Eddie Bachus, a great-grandson Zayne; and beloved family members including nieces, nephews, and special friends. Lionel was preceded in death by his brothers Laurence, Bernard, and Sister Vivian Mayo.

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