The Evans family lost their hero on August 29, 2021, in a heartbreaking catastrophe of pandemic-related sorrow. Jerry Evans died at the age of 88 following a life brimming with the full joys of spring. Prior to his death, his children and loved ones banded together to convey their feelings for him. He died of pneumonia days after being admitted to the hospital for indications of severe dehydration, but he died without fear or suffering.
Jerry was born on August 1, 1934, in the township of Huey, Calhoun County, Arkansas. He became interested in mechanics and music as he grew older. He was also highly gregarious and enjoyed traveling. He was popular and acquired a lot of friends during his life.
He joined the United States Marine Corps after graduation and fought heroically in battle during the Korean War. As a Marine, he didn't fear death. He accepted it instead as an unavoidable aspect of life. During this period of his life, he developed a close relationship with God. Jerry was a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He cherished his local church family and spoke highly of them.
Jerry earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Georgia State University. However, he frequently stated that his true education came from life and the people he cared about. Jerry was a self-starter who owned and maintained his own long-distance trucking company, which allowed him to pursue his love for travel. His passion for adventure pervaded his life and would come to define who he was. His zeal was matched only by his strength and dedication, which kept him working full-time until his unfortunate death.
Jerry's body will be returned to the earth by family members, as he wanted. To honor Jerry's memory, they will be traveling to the Evans Family Cemetery, near where he was born and raised. Friends and members of the community are invited to join the Evans family on Thursday, August 16, 2021, at 5 pm for a celebration of life service. Join us at the Gross Funeral Home on 120 Wrights Street in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Anabel Garcia Evans, and his daughters Janet, Joan, Johanna, Judy, Jeanelle, Dacia, Maggie, Maira, Ashley, Sarah, and Anna, as well as his sons John, Arthur Michael, Jerry Jr., Henry, David, Napoleon, and Donald. His mother, Opal Evans, his father, Lacy Evans, his eldest son, Jerry Allen, and his beloved dog, Oreo, preceded him in death. His unwavering love and dedication to his family were palpable in his closing moments.
