Mrs. Doris Elizabeth Overbey was born in Winter Haven, Florida on August 12th, 1927 to George Arthur Commander and Mattie Varner Commander. Her grandparents on her mother's side were James Madison Varner (Jett) and Arena McGill Varner. Her grandparents on her father's side were Thomas Alexander Commander and Mary Ella Felts commander.
Doris had four siblings. Her brother Richard Commander (Grace) was the first born, followed by sister Velma ( Frazier Wiley), Mary Rena (Bill Bryant), and Evelyn (Fritz Davidson).
Doris married her one and only sweetheart, Earl Doc Overbey on February 28th, 1948 at First Assembly of God in Winter Haven, Florida. Rev. J. D. Courtney officiated the ceremony. Upon our father's death, mom and dad had been married for 52 years.
Earl and Doris went on to have nine children. Her first born was a girl, Janice Elaine born on Earl's 25th birthday (Terry Sullivan), followed by five boys, David Earl, George Hartley, Darrell Wesley (Jan), Bobby Sherill, Randall Keith and later went on to have three more girls; Melanie Rebecca (Barry), Carol Diane, and Sandra Elizabeth.
Mother was proud of her heritage in the Varner family. She fondly recalled going to singing school with her Uncle Rufus Varner, who went on to write many gospel songs. Her cousin Wally Varner was the pianist for the Blackwood Brothers Quartet and was featured in many Gaither Homecoming Gatherings on television.
One of the highlights of Mother's life, with the exception of having her children, was attending her cousin Wally Varner's induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame at Dollywood. She also has many preachers, singers and songwriters in her blood line. Mother loved to travel with her children and went on many wonderful vacations all over the country.
Mother loved Jesus, served God with her whole heart, and loved her family. Her greatest desire was that she would live to see her children and grand children serving the Lord.
Our mother was the light of our lives, and the glue that held us all together. This world will not be the same without her. Our greatest hope is that we KNOW we will see her again in heaven.
Arrangements under the direction of Eastern Gate Memorial Funeral Home, Pensacola, FL.
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