Geraldine Yvonne Overton

July 21, 1938 - October 14, 2024

Philadelphia, PA

Geraldine Yvonne Overton passed away peacefully on October 14, 2024, in Philadelphia, PA, surrounded by her loving family. Geraldine was 86 years young at the time of her passing.

Born to Florence Young and Robert Cobbs on July 21, 1938, at Philadelphia General Hospital, she was one of four siblings: Isabelle, Robert Melville, and Spencer, all of whom preceded her in death.

"Gerri" completed her education through the Philadelphia school system—attending community college before graduating from nursing school. She began her nursing career at Pennsylvania Hospital and was renowned for her commitment to healthcare. She traveled the country with her patients as a private duty nurse before launching her own business, Sentry Nurses, at the age of 68, where she dedicated ten years of service to the Brith Sholom Community. Gerri was also a proud member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Morning Chapter No. 19.

Affectionately known as “Grandma,” “Gram,” and “Mommy,” she was a compassionate matriarch, loyal friend, poet, and loan shark (always one to loan and collect interest!). A lover of the arts, Gerri delighted in live orchestral performances, opera, museums, and theater. Her vibrant personality was complemented by her quick wit and charming matter-of-fact attitude. Her passions reflected her belief in the importance of being well-rounded, and she instilled in her family the value of education to enrich their lives and broaden their horizons.

Few things excited her more than the Phillies' Red October, an Eagles touchdown, or the back-to-back block of Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune. On any given day, after retirement, you could find her glued to her TV, enjoying black-and-white westerns or eagerly calling the Home Shopping Network to shop for her loved ones. Her Sundays were reserved for brie cheese, football, and her favorite Sunday gospel show.

Geraldine is survived by her two daughters, Sharon and Barbara, from her first marriage. She was preceded in death by her husband, her beloved, Douglas Norman Overton, who passed away in 2010.

She is also survived by her two sisters-in-law Denise and Willa Mae; grandchildren—Kimberly, James, Kevin, Felicia, and Tamara; great-grandchildren—Nadiyah, Jamir, Samir, Lialene, Ronnie, Lore, Skylar, Jaiden, Samirah, and Bari; great-great-grandchild—Evran; grand-dog—Biscuit; and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews. She will be dearly missed.

Geraldine's life was a testament to the power of family, love, resilience, and strength. She leaves behind a rich tapestry of cherished memories and a legacy of wisdom that will uplift her family and friends for generations to come. Geraldine Yvonne Overton was a remarkable woman—feared by some, loved by all.

A memorial service will be held on October 24, 2024, at The African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas in West Philadelphia, honoring her Episcopalian faith. Friends and family are invited to the viewing at 10:00 AM EST, followed by a service celebrating Geraldine's life at 11:00 AM EST.