F. MARTIN OVERHOLT

1931 - 2021

F. MARTIN OVERHOLT  
F. Martin Overholt of Richmond, Virginia, formerly of Arlington and Springfield, Virginia, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2021 at the age of 90. Loving husband of JoAnn Magill Overholt for 54 years; beloved father of Susan Johnson (Tom), Barbara Littlejohn (Andy), Hope Murphy (Jim), Jimmy Overholt (Kim Swett); devoted grandfather of Michael, Olivia, Owen, Katy, Drew, Mason, Ryan, Terry, and Nina; proud great-grandfather of five, soon to be six, children; treasured uncle and friend to countless others.Martin was born July 11, 1931, near Fuzhou, China, the son of William and Olive Overholt, who were Methodist missionaries. At age six, he came to the U.S. but returned to China with his family during high school, attending Shanghai American School. His parents, his brother Edmund Overholt, and his two sisters, Mary Jo Peterson and Abbie Bishop, all pre-deceased him.Martin enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1950 and was sent to Korea. He was a proud veteran of the Battle of Chosin Reservoir. Upon his discharge, Martin enrolled at Iowa State College, earned his degree, and came to the Washington D.C. area with his first wife, the former Mary Kay Pitzer. He began his 30-year career with United Airlines, a side benefit of which was the ease of travel. Martin and his family traveled extensively, including two return trips to China. He was able to travel to Korea as a guest of the South Korean government, in gratitude for his service during the Korean War. Martin also was a fervent fan of Washington's football team, never missing a game in person or on tv -- even the Dallas game two days before he passed away. Bluegrass music was another of Martin's passions, and he attended many festivals.In retirement, Martin began a second career as a counselor. In July, he celebrated 43 years of sobriety. While in recovery, he helped many others stay sober as well. His family and friends have dearly loved him for his great kindness, loyalty, sense of humor, and passion.A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. For details, please consult https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/joanno. In lieu of flowers, donations made be made to https://aavirginia.org/member-services/contributions/.