Evanna Grace Irvin

Evanna Grace Irvin peacefully transitioned on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at just 24 years old. A brilliant and accomplished young woman, Evanna had recently celebrated earning her Master’s in Business Administration from Texas Wesleyan University in December 2024.

Evanna’s journey of excellence began at R.L. Paschal High School, where she graduated in 2018. She continued her education at the University of North Texas and Texas Christian University (TCU), earning a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and History. Her dedication and hard work earned her a place on the President’s List and Dean’s List at TCU, along with the prestigious recognition of being a TCU President Scholar for maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA.

Her passion for politics and law took her to Washington, D.C., where she interned with the Sindhi American Political Action Committee. There, she worked on political initiatives for a senator, an opportunity that allowed her to make an impact in a field she deeply cared about. Evanna’s commitment to African American studies and justice fueled her aspirations and guided her pursuits.

Beyond her academic and professional achievements, Evanna was full of life and creativity. She cherished spending time with her mother and grandmother, enjoyed shopping trips, and found joy in needlepoint crafts. She loved to cook, often trying new recipes and sharing her delicious creations with family. She also ran a thriving resale channel, combining her entrepreneurial spirit with her passion for style.

During her time at Paschal High School, Evanna was a vibrant part of her community. She was a junior varsity cheerleader, a member of the Microbiology Club and Youth Group, and the founder of the Black Student Union.

Her educational foundation began at the Applied Learning Academy (ALA) and Alice Carlson Applied Learning Center, and her love for learning carried her through every stage of her life. Evanna was also a proud Girl Scout and a dedicated member of Mount Olive Baptist Church in Arlington, Texas.

Evanna will always be remembered for her intelligence, quick wit, and unique attention to detail. She brought joy and playfulness to her family, especially in her cherished moments with her nieces and nephew. Ambitious and determined, she excelled in all she set her mind to, yet she carried herself with poise and elegance. She loved traveling, experiencing life’s finer things, and embraced every opportunity to celebrate life.

Evanna Grace Irvin truly embodied her name. She carried herself with grace, brought light to those around her,

and left behind a legacy of love, determination, and brilliance.

She is deeply missed by her mother, Shanell Kneeland; her siblings: Kelsha Brown (Gordon), Shelvin Spencer, Evan Irvin, Ivy Kneeland-Hayes, and Eve Kneeland-Hayes; her grandmother, Eva Powell; her great-grandfather, Samuel Kneeland; her uncles: Shannon Kneeland (Patience) and Shontae Powell (Nakesha); her aunt, Taneeska Wheat; her nieces and nephew: Sariah, Charlee, and Malachi; her cousins: Hidayah and Najee; her special friend, Matthew Hawley; and a host of extended family and friends.

Evanna was a shining star in the lives of all who knew her, and her memory will forever be a blessing.