Dr. Robert Marion Overholt

Dr. Robert Marion (Bob) Overholt passed away peacefully at his home on June 10, 2024. He was 85 years of age. Bob was born June 27, 1938 in Battle Creek, MI to Dr. Bergein and Alice Overholt. He was the third of four remarkable children. He graduated from West High School as an exemplary student, leader, and athlete in 1956 and then matriculated to the University of Tennessee where he played on the football team and swim team and became a true VFL. After completing his undergraduate degree in three years he continued on to the University of Tennessee medical school in Memphis where he received his MD, was president of his class, and met the love of his life, Carole Overholt. They married and began a 63-year loving journey together of service to their family, church, and community. Dr. Bob completed an internal medicine internship at Philadelphia General Hospital and residency at the University of Michigan in 1966. He was drafted into the United States Army and served as a Captain and physician at Fort Myers Army base in Washington DC. He continued his education at the University of Michigan to complete his allergy and immunology fellowship in 1970. He then returned to Knoxville to begin his medical career where he dedicated his life to his community and patients for over 50 years. He served as president of the Knoxville Academy of Medicine, as an active member of the Tennessee Medical Association, a member of the American Medical Association, and as a fellow of the American Academy of allergy, asthma and immunology. He was given a distinguished service award from the Tennessee Medical Association.
He was a passionate supporter of the University of Tennessee athletic department and loved mentoring athletes at the University of Tennessee. Many of his lifelong friends were made playing pickup basketball at the University of Tennessee Recreation Center and on his famous backyard basketball court.
Dr. Bob was, as he so often said, "driven to serve". He always found the best in everyone and looked to help them in their journey in the midst of his busy life. He considered and treated many friends as dear members of his family. He was a devout Christian and dedicated member of West Hills Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon for 45 years, Sunday school teacher, mission worker, and member of the choir. He volunteered frequently as the church gardener and could often be seen after work planting flowers at the church in his suit. Dr. Bob loved people and his Lord as was evident to all who met him through his personality and actions. He gave willingly and selflessly to people in times of need. To Dr. Bob, it was always more blessed to give them to receive.
Dr. Bob was an intense competitor in all aspects of life, whether in sports or ice cream eating contests. One of his favorite sayings was "be better tomorrow than today." He lived by this creed as he competed in athletics, developed the Allergy Asthma and Sinus Center, raised his children, and served his community. He served as chairman of the United Way of Greater Knoxville and led United Way campaign service of our city for many years. He drew a great sense of pride from mentoring many young physicians in Knoxville's wonderful medical community and was a recipient of the UT Graduate School of Medicine Excellence in Teaching Award.
Doctor Overholt was a well-known media personality, presenting medical information twice a week on WBIR's "Live at Five". He also hosted the popular television program, "The Dr. Bob Show" for over 30 years where he featured guest experts speaking on important community health issues. The show received more than two dozen Telly Awards for excellence in broadcast programming and reached many viewers with important health care related information. We should all remember his 4 axioms of good living: exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet, get a good night's sleep, and always have laughter in our life.
Dr. Bob is deeply missed by his wife of 63 years (Carole Campbell Overholt), and his sons, Dr. Mark Overholt and Dr. John Overholt. He is survived by his loving daughter-in-laws, Dr. Meredith Overholt and Martha Overholt, along with his four grandchildren, Mary Carole Overholt, Cameron Overholt, Audrey Overholt, and Clay Overholt. He is additionally survived by his siblings, Mrs. Judy Wheeler, Dr. Gene Overholt, and Mrs. Carol Bailey. The family recognizes special thanks to Mrs. Jean Greer, who has always played a pivotal role in Dr. Bob's success, and wishes to thank her for her many years of service, dedication, and love.
A memorial service will be held at West Hills Baptist Church on June 16, 2024 at 12:30pm following the morning worship service. A receiving of friends will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to West Hills Baptist Church. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rosefuneraltn.com