Joe William Evans

Joe William Evans was born March 16, 1919, in Long Branch, Texas, to Lula Ethel Giles and Emmett William Evans. The oldest of four, he was joined by two brothers and a sister. He passed away on Aug 22nd, 2010 in Georgetown, Texas. Joe Bill grew up in East Texas surrounded by an extended family and many friends. At the age of 17, he joined the army and became a dental assistant at Fort D A Russell. After learning the importance of milk and a good diet, he sent money home for a cow to provide milk for his younger brothers. Shortly after his discharge, he was called back to serve during WWII in the European theater. He retained many good memories of the people he met and food he experienced in various countries. After serving 8 years, he was discharged as a Master Sergeant. He attended Baylor University where he received his B.S. and met his wife, Zora Anne Outlaw. They married on October 21, 1949, in Orange Texas. Much of their married life was spent in LaMarque, Texas, where they raised four children together. Joe continued his education throughout his life. After receiving a Master’s degree from Texas Tech University, he did post graduate work at Stephen F. Austin State University and the University of Houston. A voracious reader, he kept a growing pile of diverse books beside his chair. His enjoyment of all types of music was equally strong. His memory for classical literature and music was evident in his daily conversations. As a craftsman, he worked with wood and bread making but would attempt anything put in front of him. His love for animals, especially dogs, brought him deep satisfaction. He grieved deeply at the loss of his beloved Missy. During his career in education, Joe taught from the elementary level to the high school. He served as a principal, coach, teacher, and janitor at various times and was one of the early vocational adjustment coordinators in the state. After a number of years in LaMarque ISD, he retired in 1980 from Texas City ISD. He derived pleasure from the students who remained in contact and those he held in his memory. Due to the esteem his former pupils held him in; he was named an Outstanding American Teacher. Joe is survived by his wife, Zora Anne, of 61 years; his children: Judith Anne Trainor ( Jay) of Georgetown, Paul Bryant Evans (Celia) of Alpine, and Mary Elizabeth Outlaw ( Marianne Van Houtte) of Temple and sister-in-law, Alma Boone of Midland. He was blessed by one granddaughter, four grandsons and one great grandson. He was preceded in death by his oldest son, David Nigle Evans, his parents and his three siblings. Joe’s family gratefully acknowledges the excellent care provided by the staff at the Wesleyan Nursing Home and Hospice, Dr. Jane Sheppard, and Dean Hamilton. Their compassion, patience, and care have been boundless. In lieu of flowers Memorials may be made to the Missy Good Dog Treatment Room at the Georgetown Animal Shelter, the Memory Garden at the Wesleyan Nursing Home, or the Wesleyan Hospice. Visitation will be held at The Gabriels Funeral Chapel in Georgetown on Monday, August 23, 2010 from 6 to 8 PM. A memorial service will be held at the Wesleyan Estrella on Tuesday, August 24, 2010 at 2:00 P.M.