Obituary: Johanna (Overton) Friason

Johanna Marie Friason (Overton), age 42, passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord on March 28, 2026. 

Born on Aug. 7, 1983, she was the beloved daughter of Joseph “Butch” Overton and the late Teresa Abrams. From the very beginning, Johanna carried a light within her – one that touched every life she encountered.

A proud graduate of Talawanda High School, Class of 2001, Johanna continued her education at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. She graduated magna cum laude in 2005 with a bachelor of arts in interior design and theater. Her creativity, discipline and eye for beauty were evident in everything she touched.

Shortly after college, Johanna made her home in Columbus, Ohio, where she began her professional journey with Cardinal Health. During her years in Columbus, she welcomed her cherished son, Adrien Friason, in 2010 with her then-husband, Christopher Friason. Adrien was the joy of her life and she poured her heart into motherhood.

Johanna’s capacity for love extended far beyond what most could imagine. She considered it a divine blessing to raise her niece and nephews – Skylar and Jordan Overton and Lelan Gregory – who became her children in every way that mattered. Her devotion to them was unwavering and she embraced the role with grace, strength and boundless affection.

A faithful and active member of First Baptist Church, Johanna could often be found lifting her voice in praise, singing with a passion that reflected her deep love for God. Her faith was her anchor and she shared it freely with those around her.

Johanna was a uniquely gifted soul – creative, intuitive and able to see the world through a lens that others often missed. Her imagination and artistic spirit made her shine brightly and her presence brought warmth and inspiration to all who knew her. Despite life’s trials and tribulations, Johanna remained a pillar for her family. Her resilience, compassion and unwavering strength held her loved ones together through every storm.

Johanna was preceded in death by her mother, Teresa; grandparents Mildred and Robert Lee Overton and Willie and Mary Edwards Abrams; aunt Pam Wartner; uncles Ronnie and Wilbert Overton; and her nephew, baby Cole.

Leaving to cherish her memory is her father, Butchy; her sister – best friend, ace bon cu, road dawg and twin spirit flame – Ashley Overton; her beloved sister Rachel Overton; and her honorable brother Joseph Robert “Bobby” Overton (Rebecca); her sons Adrien and Lelan; her daughter Skylar; nieces Kallie and Jozie Overton and Makayla Riley. 

She is also survived by her uncles Charles Robert Overton, Greg Abrams (Lynn) and Barry Abrams (Carol), along with a host of extended family and friends who will forever hold her in their hearts.

Johanna’s legacy is one of love, faith, creativity and courage. She will be deeply missed, yet forever remembered by those blessed enough to have been part of her life.

This obituary was published by Paul R. Young Funeral Home.