John Edward “J.E.” Evans, Jr., 85, went to his homecoming with the Lord, Friday, October 10, 2014 at his home along the Roanoke River surrounded by his loved ones.
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J.E. was born December 8, 1928 in Halifax County to the late John Evans, Sr. and Annie Burnette Evans.
He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and good friend to many.
He was a lifetime member of Weldon United Methodist Church.
He owned and operated Evans’ Gulf Station for over 20 years, and then worked for Pierce’s Trailer Sales as parts manager until his retirement.
J.E. loved the Roanoke River, “the sugar shack,” and rockfishing. He considered himself a river rat. He also loved spending time with his family, and in his later years he enjoyed going to yard sales. He also loved the Hardee’s Breakfast Group. J.E. had a “master’s degree in wisdom.”
In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his wife, Alma Estelle Evans; his sisters, Ruth Ridley, Edith Nettles, and Louise Hatchell; his brother, Murray Alvin “Buddy” Evans; his nephews Roger T. Hatchell; and George “Jiggs” Hatchell.
J.E. is survived by his son John E. “Johnny” Evans and wife Beth of Roanoke Rapids; his daughter Bobbi Sue Evans Butler of Gaston; his grandchildren Evan Butler; Hart Evans; and Grace Evans. His nieces and nephews, Major Hatchell and wife Corrye of Henrico; Mary Catherine Brantley of Roanoke Rapids; George Edward Evans of Bradenton, Fl.; Lois Parker of Jeffersonville, In.; Ruth Ann Ridley of Chesterfield, Va.; Gene Ridley, Jr. of Garner, NC; Susan Keyes of Newport News, Va.; and several great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews. Also surviving are special friends, Amanda and Dale Haislip and children Meagan and Colby; Rives Taylor; Millie and Steve Taylor; Blackie Pierce; and Jean Rook.
Funeral services to celebrate his life will be held Tuesday, October 14, 2014 at 11:00 AM at Weldon United Methodist Church with Rev. Randy Martin and Rev. Sue Owens officiating. Burial will follow in Cedarwood Cemetery in Weldon.
The family will receive friends Monday, October 13, 2014 at Hockaday Funeral & Cremation Service from 6:30 to 8:30 PM and all other times at Mr. Evans’ home and at the home of his son Johnny.
The family would like to express special thanks to Continum Hospice, especially Jean Turner; Sharon Lee; and Susan Viverette for all their care and dedication.
Memorial Contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of Eastern North Carolina 3739 National Dr. Suite 110 Raleigh, NC 27612; American Cancer Society P.O. Box 22718 Oklahoma City, Ok. 73123-1718; and to Weldon United Methodist Church Building Fund, PO Box 228 Weldon, NC 27890.
Online condolences may be made at www.hockadayfs.com.