In Loving Memory of Deanna Overstreet

The world lost a virtuous woman whose children rise and call her blessed, and whose husband praises her. Deanna Overstreet, 80, a longtime resident of Alamogordo, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, August 24, 2025.

Deanna was born on August 17, 1945, to James R. and Ollie M. Teel in Fort Sumner, New Mexico. Her family later moved to Carlsbad, where she was raised. After graduating from Carlsbad High School, she attended the University of New Mexico, where she fell deeply in love with Tom Overstreet. She left school to raise a family and support Tom’s career, later returning to academic life to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from New Mexico State University.

Deanna shared her passion for English literature and rhetoric as a professor at NMSU and also served in the writing center at NMSU-Alamogordo. She was a lifelong learner, a published author, a juried artist, and the longtime foreman of the Diamond O Ranch.

Known for her stunning beauty, natural charm, and servant’s heart, Deanna turned heads wherever she went. But it was her remarkable intelligence and razor-sharp wit that truly defined her. Deanna enjoyed surprising those who underestimated her. With brilliance and bite, she could dismantle any unsound position with grace and precision.

Deanna is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Tom Overstreet; her children: John M. Overstreet (spouse Stephanie A. Overstreet), J. Nathan Overstreet, David M. Overstreet (spouse Sarah E. "Beth" Overstreet), and Dianne O. Dixon (spouse William H. “Duke” Dixon); her grandchildren: Alyssa Dralle, Amy Stevens, Adam and Aaron Overstreet; Jonathan, Rachel, and Lauren Overstreet; Michael Overstreet; and five great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James R. and Ollie M. Teel, brother John Teel, and sister Claudette Maddox.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at Alamogordo Funeral Home, 2301 East First Street. Father Frank Wilson will officiate.

Burial will take place at a later date at Monte Vista Cemetery in Alamogordo.

The Overstreet family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Alamogordo Funeral Home to direct the funeral services.