OVERMAN John Gilbert

John Overman was born in 1896. He attended Malvern College in House 3 from 1911 to 1913.

The following information is courtesy of Pat Bray:
John Overman is also commemorated on an illuminated Roll of Honour on the North side of the nave in St Peter’s Church, Weasenham, St Peter, Norfolk where his rank is shown as Acting Captain. A further plaque dedicated to John’s memory can be found in the South Chapel. The chapel is also devoted to John’s memory:
‘To the glory of God and in thankful / memory of 2nd Lieut John Gilbert Overman / killed in action in France whilst leading his / company. September 9th 1918, this chapel / and reredos were erected.

Underneath the plaque is his wooden cross grave marker with his name plate.

Also in the chapel is a beautiful stained-glass window which must also be in memorium, because up in the tracery lights is the cap badge of 2Lt Overman’s regiment – the KOYLI. The window is the work of Geoffrey Webb, installed in 1920, according to Haward Birkin’s book (the ‘bible’ of Norfolk and Suffolk Victorian stained glass). It shows both St George and St Michael slaying dragons, with the Virgin Mary and Christ in the middle. In the tracery lights are the royal cypher of King George VI, the two saints’ crosses and the cap badge.

John Overman’s parents, Gilbert and Mary, were farmers. John was the oldest of at least 4 children, having a younger brother and 2 sisters. There are several other family memorials within St Peter’s church and many family graves in a plot in the churchyard.

Overman John, Memorial Plaque, ©Pat Bray

Overman John, grave cross ©Pat Bray

Overman John, Roll of Honour ©Pat Bray