Mark David Oliver

"For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance..." Ecclesiastes 3:1-4 Mark David Oliver was a Christ‐follower, proud father, and gifted neurosurgeon. He was surrounded by family and loved ones when he crossed over to be with his Lord on Monday, September 25, 2023, after a short illness. Born in Orange, Texas on May 10, 1964, he was the only child of William Oliver and Sherry Elmes. He graduated from Opelika High School in 1982 and attended nearby Auburn University where he graduated in 1986. He went on to earn his medical degree at the University of Alabama at Birmingham's School of Medicine in 1990, and completed his neurosurgery residency at Tampa General Hospital in 1998. Shortly thereafter, he and his small family moved to Ocala where he began his surgical practice at Ocala Neurosurgical Center. Through the years Mark built an amazing career, becoming well known for his extraordinary surgical and clinical skills. But beyond that, he cared deeply for the well‐being of his patients. He believed being a physician was a gift from God and he used it as a ministry to others. Over the years, many have confirmed he was not a "typical physician". Although he lived in Ocala, in many ways he was never far from his beloved University. An avid Auburn Tigers fan, he travelled to both home and away games with family and friends. Mark became a "volunteer" consultant with the Auburn athletics medical team and head coach, and considered becoming a member of the staff after retirement. Even though he graduated from UAB's medical school, his love for all things Auburn was obvious to all. However, his most significant achievement was his family. Mark is survived by his three daughters: Jessica Overfelt (Matthew), Samantha Oliver, and Malia Oliver; two sons Andrew Oliver and Carson Oliver; three beautiful grandchildren Evelyn Overfelt, Wilson Overfelt, and Marli Brown; as well as Delano Christie who joined the Oliver family in 2013. He is also survived by Ashley Morris, his father William Oliver (Janet), and stepfather Chuck Elmes; and is pre‐deceased by his mother, Sherry Elmes. Mark will be missed by the many friends, healthcare professionals, patients, and business acquaintances that he garnered over the years, but mostly by his family who knows he now rests in peace with his Savior. A celebration of life service will be held at Church @ The Springs on Saturday, October 7th at 11:00 am. There will also be a celebration of life gathering at Resting Pulse Brewing Company in Opelika, Alabama on Saturday, November 4th at 2:00 pm.

Mark David Oliver

May 10, 1964 - September 25, 2023