Emmalene Gilley Overby

Emmalene Gilley Overby, a cherished matriarch, passed away peacefully at her home on November 18, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on December 16, 1934, in Grand Ridge, Florida, she was a beacon of light and warmth in the lives of all who knew her.

Emmalene was a remarkable sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. Her love for her family was evident in everything she did, from taking her grandchildren on walks through the woods to creating beautiful gardens and growing her beautiful flowers that brought joy to all. Her wonderful cooking was a source of comfort and happiness, with family gatherings often centered around her delicious meals.

Emmalene's legacy continues through her five children: Kenneth Ray Overby (Judy) of Sneads, FL, Joyce Runnels of Pulaski, Earnestine Parker of Morton, Durlene Overby of Homewood, and Alene Stuart of Pulaski. She is also survived by her beloved siblings, Ernest, Jimmy, Jack, and Helen, alongside her extensive family of 18 grandchildren, Samantha, Lynn, Andrew, Kimberly, Kenneth, Bruce, Christina, Francis, Gary, Hope, Paula, Virgil (VJ), Matthew, Christopher, Paralee, Pauline, Judd and Anashasia;  29 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren, with one more expected to arrive soon.

Emmalene was preceded in death by her husband, Durwood A.M. Overby; her parents, Paul Gilley and Ernestine Weddington; her grandson, Roy Hill; her great-grandchild, Emily Griffin; and several siblings, Willey Paul, Thomas Earl, Jessie, Ann, Ruth, Christine, Wylene, and Arthur Lee. Also welcoming her into eternity are her sons-in-law, Ricky Runnels and Clyde Parker.

As family and friends gather to honor Emmalene, visitation will be held on November 21, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM at the Still Blessed Worship Center, located at 8001 US-80, Morton, MS. A graveside service will take place later that day at Coat Baptist Church Cemetery, 415 Baldwin Rd, Magee, MS, at 2:30 PM.

Emmalene Gilley Overby will be lovingly remembered for her nurturing spirit, her unwavering devotion to her family, and the countless cherished memories she created with each of them. Her love and guidance will continue to influence all whose lives she touched.

The visitation will be held Friday, November 21, 2025 from 9am - 11am at Still Blessed Worship Center.  

The service will be held Friday, November 21, 2025 at 11am at Still Blessed Worship Center.

Graveside will be held at 2:30pm at Coats Baptist Church Cemetery in Magee, MS.

Pallbearers will be Virgil (VJ) Moore, Matthew Moore, Christopher Smith, Kenneth Overby, Andrew Brown, Brandon Kyle Overby, Kaleb Ray Overby and Andrew Overby.

Ott and Lee Funeral Home in Morton is honored to serve the Overby family.