Ms. Ja'Net Overton- Sligh

Passed 04/25/2021

Obituary For Ms. Ja'Net Overton- Sligh

Ja’Net Overton Sligh died Sunday, April 25, 2021. Viewing 1:00-4:30 pm on Sunday, May 2, 2021 at Saint Philip AME Church. Celebration of Life will be private at Grissom-Clark Funeral Home. Interment will be 11:00 am Saturday, May 8, 2021 at Beechwood Cemetery 3300 Fayetteville Street Durham, N.C.

Mary Janet Overton Sligh was born on June 12, 1948 in Elizabeth City, NC. She was the third child of Anthony Ashley Overton and Annie Bell Overton. Her parents and older brother, Benjamin Frederick Overton, preceded her in death. Our beloved Janet peacefully entered eternal rest on April 25, 2021 at the age of 72. Janet attended Pasquotank County Elementary, and P.W. Moore High School in Elizabeth City and graduated from Hillside High School in Durham, NC. After graduating from North Carolina Central University in Durham with a Bachelor of Science, Janet continued at the university and obtained her M.Ed. She subsequently began her teaching career in Wilson and then in Apex NC. After moving to Atlanta in 1986, Janet was a Special Education teacher at Columbia High School (Decatur) where she was chosen Teacher of the Year in 2001.

“Sligh”, as she was affectionately called by her Saint Philip family, was a faithful member of many organizations including the Christian Education Ministry. Her love of music was reflected in her membership in the Sanctuary Choir, the Morning Praise, the Chancel Choir and the SPC Mass Choir. Janet was dedicated to serving the people of God and did so in the Nettie Lewis Moore Unit of the Women’s Missionary Society, the Greeters Ministry, the Trustee Board, and the SPC Bookstore. Because she loved working with the youth, she coordinated and directed Vacation Bible School for over 20 years as well as annual Youth Oratorical Contests during Black History Month. She volunteered for our annual S.T.E.M.S Career Fairs, and founded the Rites of Passage program for Girls. Janet served as a temporary Director SPC Child Development Center. She volunteered at the Food Pantry and as the bus driver for the SPC Dance Ministry. In addition, Sligh was a charter member of SPC Toastmasters and president of the Seniors and Retirees Group.

Sligh was an invaluable member of the educational community and her church as well as a friend to many. She will be greatly missed. Janet is survived by her sister, Sylvia Richardson, Durham NC; her brother, Ret. Sgt. Alvan Overton (Kathleen) Elizabeth City, NC; sister-in-law, Mary Overton, Atlanta GA; special nephews/“sons” William and Rodney Richardson; 6 nephews, 2 nieces, 9 great-nephews, 7 great-nieces and Peyton, her goddaughter.



Guest Book

Ms. JaNet was a very dear friend and confidant. We shared the best laughs together, she was so humorous. Ms JaNet was truly a angelic gift to us all from Our Creator. Sending my sincere condolences and prayers to the family. I am forever grateful to have had her as my friend. Donna Tarrant-Bangura

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Janet Sly you will be miss very much.Your friend Elizabeth Marshall.

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Sligh was a great friend and support for the familied and staff members at Saint Philip CDC. We send prayers and love to the family. Cindy McNeil

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I first met Sligh in the Saint Philip Crown Ministries class. After that I saw her as a Missionary, then working with the children in the Education Ministry, then I saw her participating on a program at Saint Philip (I don't remember the ministry) performing a solo and then of course the Senior and Retirees. I remember the last long conversation we had; how we reminisced about growing up in the country. I still have the email Sligh sent me inviting me to a Toastmasters Meeting. Sligh is such an inspiration; I think I will join the Toastmasters. Sligh I will miss your unselfish, generous, bubbly personality. Sincerely and With Sympathy, Gwen Porchea

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My sincere condolences to you and your family. I pray that God will give you strength today and for days to come. Rev. Younger

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My sincere condolences to you and your family. I pray that God will give you strength today and for days to come. Rev. Younger

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Praying for comfort and sending deep condolences to the family and friends of Ja'Net Overton-Sligh. Ja'Net showed herself to be a kind person, not afraid to make a stand for what's right and a positive encouraging leader for youth. May she Rest In Peace until we meet again, The Holman family

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My sincerest words of sympathy and love for my friend Sylvia Richardson and her family. Shielda Rodgers

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To the family of Ja'Net Overton-Sligh, I so sorry for your loss. I am praying for your peace, comfort and that God gives you strength during this difficult time. She was a beautiful person both inside and out and I really loved her smile...it would light up a room. I also enjoyed serving with her on the Career Ministry. Every year we would have a STEMS Fair for our SPC and community youth. I just remember she would always ask "what do you need?", with her smiling face. She truly had a servants heart and will be missed. With sincere sympathy and gratitude, Alicia Sierra and family

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When the Lord calls our loved ones home, he leaves a gift of memories in exchange. I pray for God to dispatch Angels of comfort to surround the family. Blessings to each of you during this season. Brenda Vann, St Philip AME Church.

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Ja'Net, you will be truly missed and always remembered for your loving kindness and genuine caring for humanity. You will always be thought of as a "good person" who is gone to soon. God wanted this angel back and we send you off with much love. M. Theresa Ginyard

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Our paths have crossed for a very long time, especially at St. Philip. However, after retiring and joining the SENIORS & RETIREES GROUP at the church, I began to work more closely with Sister Sligh. Such a willing worker, sweet lady. She will be missed always, Our DEVOTED LEADER forever. Margo White

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Sylvia, William and Rodney, words can't express how deeply sorry I am fover the loss of your sister and aunt. Cherish the wonderful memories. May God grant you peace and understanding. Anette Powell

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My thoughts and prayers are with the family of one of my dearest friends Sligh. She was loved by all and missed by many. Peace and Blessings Maxine W. Marshall and family

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Ja'Net, we will miss your smile, your sweet, sweet spirit, your wonderful sense of humor and all of your service and time given to the Saint Philip A.M.E. Trustee Board and Education Building Renovation Committee. You exhibited a great example of what a true Christian and servant of God looks like. Rest In Peace and I pray God's comfort, grace and mercy for your family. You will be dearly missed. Sylvia Fields - Saint Philip A.M.E. Trustees

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So very sorry to hear of her passing.... And with great memories of our time together at Columbia H.S. .....Buddy Quirouet

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To the Overton Family, our condolences to you during this difficult time. I worked with Ja'net as teacher and auxiliary coach and Columbia High School for many years. I will never forget her beautiful smile and loving personality. Her charisma will always be remembered. This beautiful women will be truly missed. Rest In Peace my friend. We love and miss you always, Perry, Vikki Williams & Family❤️

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Sending my sincere condolences and prayers to the family of Ja'net Overton-Sligh. Sligh was such a fun loving, dedicated church member and Toastmaster. We enjoyed laughing and talking whenever we were together. I will miss her! Francine Gadson

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TO SYLVIA, WILLIAM AND RODNEY RICHARDSON OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY IN THE LOSS OF YOUR SISTER AND AUNT. JA'NET WAS A SWEET LADY AND WAS A JOY TO HAVE KNOWN HER. MAY THE PEACE OF GOD BE WITH YOU AT THIS TIME. MARGARET HIGHTOWER AND FAMILY!❤️

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WE are deeply saddened to receive news of the passing of Ms. Sligh. We both had the opportunity to work with her at School and Church. We're really gonna miss her sweet, friendly greetings and genuine smiles. The beautiful ROSES we see are a constant reminder of one of her greatest qualities. "We Love You Now & Forever." Willie & Sarah Jordan

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Fond memories of our time together working in Dekalb County Schools and later in the Child Development Center. You will be greatly missed for all of your contributions to SPC family. Extending prayers of healing and strength to family at this time.

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From Judy & John Simmons... Our sincere condolences 2 Overton-Sligh family... Bless you. We were initially connected through TM's, but stayed connected through our desire 2 encourage youths.

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The Hillside High School Class of 1966 sends our prayers to Sylvia, Rodney and William. Another Angel has gone home. We will miss our classmate. Sylvia, Rodney and William, Dwain, Gregory,Jr and myself send our Love and comfort. Barbara S. Monroe, Class of 1966

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To Sylvia, William and Rodney sorry to hear of the passing of Janet. The Buie family send there deepest sympathy to you. Praying that God will give you strength you need. Lizzie, Fran and Danita

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Ja'Net was full of life! That's how she'll be remembered by me. I pray that you and the Family will be comforted by the Holy Spirit and that her soul rest with the Lord. Alice Tharrington- Dirham, NC

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Our condolences for the family of Ja'Net Overton-Sligh. We will miss seeing you moving quickly through the church doing all that you would do. Life is short but you gave it your all! William and Linda Byers (SCP Credit Union)

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To Sylvia And Family, Janet Meant A lot To SPC Seniors Group. She Will Be Deeply Missed. Praying For Strength And Comfort To You And Family. Pearline & Carter Jones.

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My sincerest condolences to the Overton and Richardson families. Love, Theodore Poole

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I enjoyed chatting about our roots in rural North Carolina whenever Ja'Net visited her sister, Sylvia, in Durham. Her smile, her humor, and her personality were reflections of the sincerity of those foundational roots in combination with a pinch of urban sophistication and flair. Rest In Peace. Eddie Davis Durham, NC

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TO THE RICHARDSON/OVERTON FAMILIES...A BEAUTIFUL BEACON LIGHT HAS SUDDENLY GONE OUT...WE KNOW THAT SOMETIMES THERE JUST AREN'T ANY ANSWERS...BUT WHAT WE DO KNOW IS THAT THROUGH OUR RELIGIOUS FAITH, GOD SEES EACH TEAR, HE FEELS EVERY HURT... HE UNDERSTANDS OUR NEED TO ASK "WHY" AND BECAUSE OF HIS GENUINE LOVE FOR US, WE TRUST THAT IN TIME HIS COMFORT AND PEACE WILL COME TO YOU. PLEASE KNOW THAT YOUR FAMILY WILL BE IN OUR PRAYERS AND IN OUR THOUGHTS ALWAYS...WITH SINCERE LOVE AND SYMPATHY...CAROLYN ROBERTS GILL, KIMBERLY AND EMMETT, JR...DURHAM, N C.

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My Dear Friend and Neighbor, Sylvia: Thinking of you and your lovely family with LOVE and SYMPATHY! It was my honor and pleasure to have known Ja'Net! Be blessed, Shirley Herbin and Family Durham, NC

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A very unique and gentle spirit. Her beautiful smile and kind heart is what i remember most. Comforting prayers are being sent to her family and friends. Barbara Morgan (Toastmaster friend)

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What a special and unique gift from God Sly was. She always made you feel welcomed and appreciated. Her smile is still endearing. As sad as we are to see her depart this earthly realm their is relief in knowing she is always with us in spirit. My sympathies and comforting prayers are sent to her family and love ones. Barbara Morgan (Toastmasters friend)

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My deepest condolences to Ms Sligh's family and friends. She will be remembered as a loving and kind person. The members of her toastmasters family will miss her dearly

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To the family of Toastmaster Sligh: Our hearts go out to you in TM Sligh's passing. As a charter member of the club, Sligh was an integral part of keeping the club active since its inception in 2009. She was currently serving as our club Secretary and Treasurer, and is a past president as well. We will truly miss her spirit, kindness, generosity, comedic sense of humor, and always saying how busy she was with church committee duties over the years. We love and miss her tremendously. The club will not be the same without her presence. Farewell and rest well in heaven, my dear friend and fellow Toastmaster. Kendra Harris, Club President, Toastmasters of SPC.

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I will miss my Toastmaster friend. She was so loving, caring, and always willing to lend a helping hand. She will be missed. Toastmaster Martin

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With deepest sympathies. Gwen Holley

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Sweet memories of the times spent with loved ones really help us as we go thru the sadness of losing someone so dear, rest on!

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Soror Richardson and Family I extend my deepest condolences. I was saddened to learn of Ja'Net's passing. It was always a delight to see her when she came to visit to attend Pi chapter's events. May the peace of God be with you and your family during your bereavement. May the fond memories you shared give you comfort. I pray for your strength. Much Love always. Riley Walters, Pi Chapter.

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My deepest condolences to the family. May GOD continue to comfort you during this difficult time. I got to know her better while working together during Vacation Bible School. I always enjoyed working with her too. She was a kind and caring person. I could always depend upon her buying girl scout cookies and other event tickets from my daughter. She will truly be missed. Rest in Paradise my sister. Until we meet again.

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To Soror Sylvia Richardson and Family: Sylvia, I am so sorry to learn of the passing of Ja'Net. She had such a sweet spirit. I will always cherish the times she spent with us in Pi Chapter. Please know that God is covering you with our love and prayer during this very sad time. Praying for your peace and comfort in the days ahead. Much Love, Linda L. Hester, Pi Chapter, Durham, NC

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May the peace and grace of God surround the family and friends of Ja'Net.

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I'm going miss Ms.Sligh so much she was so nice and sweet.I really enjoyed have her as my treacher.

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Heartfelt condolences go to the Overton-Sligh family in the transition of your loved one. She served the St. Philip Seniors and Retirees group very well and will be missed. May your wonderful memories and good times you shared with her bring you comfort and ease your sorrow. God bless you all, Sheron Douglas - St. Philip Senior & Retiree member.

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Sending LOVE and Sympathy We pray that your memories and your faith will sustain you today and in the days to come. Please know that we share in this moment as well. Shirley Farrar Jones and family.

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Greetings, I was deeply sorry to hear of the loss of Ja'Net. She was a lovely Christian lady and will be sorely missed. My prayers are with her family. Love, E. JoAnn Bacon, Tucker, GA

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Sligh was a founding member of the St Philips Toastmasters club. She always participated in district events and was well known in the Toastmasters community. She was always willing to help with contests and she supported her club faithfully. She was positive and upbeat whenever I saw her. She will be sorely missed. Kim D. Smith, DTM

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Ms. Ja'Net Overton- Sligh was a very nice lady. I remember speaking with her years ago in downtown Decatur while she was chaperoning a group of school children at a career center. Sometimes it is real interesting to meet Saint Philip members outside of Church. However, Ms. Ja'Net Overton- Sligh warmly greeted me and we talked but she quickly put her game face on to deal with the Children. Thank God for her memory. The Lawrence Family wishes the absolute best to her Family.

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To The Overton-Sligh Family, May you find comfort and peace during this difficult time through the memories made over the years with Ja'Net. She was truly a "lady" who exemplified warmth, kindness and genuine concern for others. Again, embrace the fond memories of your loved one; Ja'Net Overton-Sligh. Ken and Freda Williams

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My deepest sympathy. Praying for Peace and Strength for the family. Frances Walters

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Blessed are they that mourn for they shall be comforted. Heartfelt Sympathy to the Overton- Sligh family, Saint Philip Church family and friends. Sligh will be greatly missed .She had a sweet spirit and was always willing to serve. My thoughts and prayers are with you. at a time such as this. Sylvia Davis SRs/ RetireesC

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You will be missed greatly especially the Dining Divas. Love, Gwen Satcher

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With our deepest sympathy. Leon and Karen Nolton

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Sligh I will miss you my friend! So glad to have known you and will cherish our memories until I see you again. Rest in the sweet arms of Jesus!

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Offering prayers of healing and comfort to the Overton-Sligh Family during your time of bereavement. Christine Waters Saint Philip A.M.E. Church

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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- Grissom-Clark Funeral Home | Atlanta, GA