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Celebrating the life of Richard A. Overton

The oldest living WWII Veteran died peacefully in Austin surrounded by his family at the age of 112.

AUSTIN, Texas — On Thursday, Dec. 27, World War II Veteran Richard A. Overton died at the age of 112 in his home of Austin. 

Overton was born in Bastrop County, Texas, on May 11, 1906. He lived most of his young life in the Creedmoor community of Pleasant Valley. He then became a longtime resident of Austin, living on 2011 Hamilton Ave.

The veteran volunteered for the Army starting in 1942 and served with the 188th Aviation Engineer Battalion, an all-black unit that served on various islands of the Pacific.

He credited God for living so long, but said he didn't take any medicine and enjoyed his vices.

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The funeral service for Mr. Overton will be held at Shoreline Church Saturday at 11:00 a.m.

The Order of Service will proceed as follows:

Credit: Rebeca Trejo

The funeral procession will include a military flyover at the Texas State Cemetery at 11 a.m.

Following the funeral, Overton will be buried at the Texas State Cemetery at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Overton's memory can be made to Honor Flight Austin.

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