Evelyn loved her life, and life loved her back. She grew up in Sheffield, Alabama, where she ran the village green with a pack of kids and was adored by her parents. She was considered the smartest kid in class, fueled by curiosity that continued throughout her life. Evelyn deeply loved her sisters Lou and Peg, and her parents John and Ida. She was proud that her parents had very different political views and they would debate ideas at the dinner table with deep love and affection. Evelyn had a lifelong love of learning, and in particular science, in which she excelled, earning a doctorate degree in Chemistry. Her love of others and service led her to join the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, where she was a nurse, and nursing instructor. Always learning, Evelyn earned a doctorate degree in chemistry, and professionally worked as a principal chemist at Midwest Research Institute ("MRI"), where she was beloved by her peers for her integrity and honesty. She was awarded the MRI Council of Principal Scientists Professional Award in 1982. Following her retirement, Evelyn joined the Peace Corps and traveled to Papua New Guinea, where she continued her passion for teaching. Evelyn also loved to go boogie boarding when visiting her retired parents and sister in San Clemente, California. Evelyn was a fabulous role model for how to be happy regardless of circumstances.
Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents, sisters, and lifelong friend Sr. Martha Smith, CSJ. She is survived by her nieces Mary and Patty, and nephews Peter and Andrew. She has now joined her beloved family.
There will be a celebration of Evelyn’s wonderful life on Sunday, September 26, 2021 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Blue Hills Country Club, 777 West Burning Tree Drive, Kansas City, Missouri 64145.
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