By Lonnie Wilkey
Editor, Baptist and Reflector
Lonnie Wilkey
Tennessee Baptists lost one of their best last week when God called Mike Overcash home on June 8 to be with Him (see obituary). I lost a friend.
Sometimes phrases are either overused or misused. When I say that Mike Overcash had a servant’s heart, it is neither misused or overused. Mike spent most of his 80 years on this earth serving people and serving the Lord that he gave his life to many years ago.
Mike was one of those multi-talented guys who recognized where his gifts and talents came from. For years he worked with computer systems at LifeWay Christian Resources and later the Tennessee Baptist Convention where he served for six years before retiring.
But his gifts went far beyond computer work. Mike was a talented minister of music who often found small churches with a need and would serve them on an interim or part-time basis.
Most of all Mike had a love for people that would not “retire.” He became heavily involved in Tennessee Baptist Disaster Relief efforts following his retirement. When a crisis occurred Mike would spend far more hours a week helping to meet needs than he was ever paid for when he was on staff.
Mike was so genuine. I value the time we spent together when he was on staff and later as a DR volunteer. Mike was 80 years old when he died and he died after doing some volunteer work. How appropriate.
Mike’s life is a reminder that you never truly “retire” from ministry and you are never too old to serve the Lord. I have no doubt that Mike heard these words on June 8: “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Goodbye friend!
