Obituary published on Legacy.com by Hughey Funeral Home on Sep. 8, 2025.
Ernie was born September 21,1947. He married Barbara Ann Allen on April 17, 1967. His journey on this Earth was one marked by love, compassion, and unwavering faith in God. His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and many more whose lives were touched by him. We ask that you remember him not for the way his life ended, but for the way it was lived.
Ernie is survived by his best friend and loving wife, Barbara, of 58 years, and 4 children: Angela (Jeffrey) Sheridan of
Opdyke, IL; Tracy Sweetin of
Opdyke, IL; Trena (Ronald) Greene of Everton, MO; Ryan (Carmen) Overbey of
Mt. Vernon, IL. He was the best Papa to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Hillary, Mallory, Maddie, Erika, Parker, Briana, Kaylie, Coraline, Atlas, Delton, Jackson, Josie, Jase, Jessa, Gray, Brodie, and one special great-nephew, Josh Jr. He is also survived by 2 brothers: Albert (Beverly) Overbey of Bonnie, IL and Henry (Sharon) Overbey of
Mt. Vernon, IL, 1 sister: Lorene Overbey of
Mt. Vernon, IL, two sisters-in-law: Vonda Brooks of Ewing, IL and Carol Bube of
Mt. Vernon, IL, several nieces, and nephews. He also leaves many other family members and friends who will sadly miss him.
Mia, his precious grand-dog, has watched over and protected him throughout his cancer journey.
He was preceded in death by one infant son, Rodney Eugene. Also preceding him in death are his parents, Henry and Ethel (Clark) Overbey and several uncles, aunts, and cousins.
Outside of working 30 years for Hevi-Duty Dowzer Electric and 15 years for the City of Mt. Vernon Parks and Recreation Department, he enjoyed working on small engines, especially lawnmowers. There was nothing that he could not fix. He would rush to the aid of anyone who needed his assistance. Ernie and Barb enjoyed spending time together going to auctions, rummage sales, Branson, and listening to Gospel music.
Although he was a man of few words, he was selfless, wise, and a hard-worker. His dedication to his family was unmatched. He truly was a legend.
Ernie was a member of the Belle Rive Missionary Baptist Church, where he shared his faith with his family and friends.
May his memory be a blessing, and may we carry forth his legacy of love and compassion in all that we do.
In place of flowers or plants, the Overbey family humbly invites you to make a gift of love through donations, in care of Barbara Overbey, which will assist in alleviating the burden of medical expenses. Your generosity is a blessing, especially during this time of grief and healing.
A Visitation will be held Tuesday, September 9, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Hughey Funeral Home in
Mount Vernon, Illinois. A Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 11:00 am at Hughey Funeral Home in
Mount Vernon, Illinois, with Reverend Richard McCormick and Reverend Norman Howell officiating. Interment will follow at Opdyke Cemetery in
Opdyke, IL.
Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information.