Robert A. Evans Sr.

Born in 1934 in Dublin, Georgia, he lived a long and extraordinary life defined by love, service, and quiet excellence — as a devoted husband, a loving and supportive father, an adoring grandfather, and a proud great-grandfather.

Mr. Evans was preceded in death by his beautiful and loving wife, Louise Boyer Evans (Dublin, GA). He is survived by his four children, Angela Evans-Manto (Chicago, IL), L'Tanya Evans, L'Tondalaya Rodriguez (Columbus, OH), and Robert A. Evans, Jr. (Newark, OH); his grandchildren, Mark Manto (Allison Wong), Chelsea Grames, Katianna Evans, Juan Miguel Rodriguez, Aryss Rodriguez (Locke Draughn), and Chloe Evans; and his six great-grandchildren, Joshua, Raelle, Halen, Aurora, Zaeden, and Alaya. He was a caring brother, uncle, and friend to many.

Mr. Evans lived a life of honor and distinction. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for over 20 years, including during the Vietnam War. Following his military career, he continued his lifelong commitment to service as a civil servant with the Department of Veterans Affairs, pioneering work with the EEOC and holding other government posts. He volunteered at the Buckeye Boys' Ranch, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the Newark Crisis Center. In his third career, he found new purpose as a beloved long-term substitute teacher in the Newark Public Schools for more than 20 years, sharing his natural charm, warmth, and gift for inspiring young people.

In his youth, Mr. Evans was a gifted athlete, and throughout his life, he remained a devoted fan of his beloved Michigan Wolverines. He was also an artist and a passionate jazz enthusiast who fulfilled a lifelong dream by taking up the saxophone after his third retirement. A curious and lifelong learner, he was a knowledgeable historian who loved sharing what he knew with anyone willing to listen. He was proud to serve as the historian for the Oconee National Alumni Association.

Robert A. Evans, Sr. was a hero not only to his family but to all who had the privilege of knowing him. His love, wisdom, humor, and generous spirit touched countless lives, and his legacy of honor, service, and devotion will live on in all who loved him. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

A Memorial Service will be held at Schoedinger Margarum Northeast, 1051 E Johnstown Road, Gahanna, Ohio 43230, on July 18, 2026 at 11:00 am.