Funeral services set for Belleville man found dead on Illinois 161

Shawn Overmiller is being lauded for his support of Metro East Pride and for his personality as a “social butterfly,” according to his obituary.

Overmiller, 40, of Belleville was found dead on Illinois 161 Wednesday of an apparent drug overdose, Belleville police said. A Belleville man was charged Friday with abuse of a corpse and concealment of a death in connection with the case.

The obituary for Overmiller, who was known as “Shawny,” was posted Friday by Kassly Mortuary of Fairview Heights.

“Shawny wasn’t just part of the Metro East Pride family; he helped shape it,” the obituary states. “His heart for our mission showed up time and time again, and his support never wavered. Whether it was showing up, cheering loud, or stepping up when we needed him most, Shawny was there.”

Metro East Pride is a Belleville-based organization that promotes and advocates for inclusion of people in the LGBTQIA community throughout the St. Louis and Southwest Illinois regions, according to its website.

“Shawn was a social butterfly, never met a stranger, loved being outdoors, camping, and he loved spending time with his dogs,” his obituary states.

Overmiller’s survivors include his husband, Richard Jones.

A candlelight vigil will be held in Overmiller’s honor at 7 p.m. Monday at 30 Public Square in downtown Belleville.

The visitation will be from noon to 4 p.m. Friday, March 27 at Kassly Mortuary at 9900 St. Clair Ave. and the funeral will follow the visitation.

A GoFundMe page has been established to help pay for funeral costs.