Nola Lee Evans

Nola Evans, age 91, of Yukon, Oklahoma, passed away on November 1, 2026. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, she leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a family who will miss her dearly. While there is sadness here on earth, what a day of rejoicing and celebration there must be in heaven. She is with her Savior and Lord, whole again and forever in His presence. Nola has also been reunited with her beloved husband, James, along with countless family members and friends who have gone before her.

Nola was born on November 27, 1934, to Virgil and Lillian Herdes. Alongside her sister, Lora Marie, she experienced a humble and loving upbringing. The sisters were inseparable and remained best friends throughout their lives. Playing make-believe, spending time with extended family, and enjoying school were treasured parts of her childhood.

Nola met the love of her life when she was just 16 years old. Within months, she and James were married on October 13, 1951, beginning a beautiful journey that would span 46 years. Together they moved, explored life, and welcomed three children: Debbie, Phillip, and Nicole.

While James worked, Nola devoted herself to creating a warm and loving home. She became a master seamstress and gifted cook, caring not only for her family but also for friends and neighbors. If you could dream it, she could create it. As her children grew, Nola began a new chapter working in the public school system.

Her work brought her great joy, providing opportunities to encourage, influence, and minister to children and teenagers, which she considered one of God's callings on her life. She also invested countless hours teaching children at church through Vacation Bible School, youth programs, and other ministries.

Nola and James shared 46 wonderful years of marriage before James went to be with the Lord in November 1997.

Nola was a courageous woman of faith who faced every obstacle with determination, prayer, and trust in God. Her perseverance, strength, and steadfast spirit carried her through life's challenges. Communication was one of her greatest gifts. She never met a stranger and had a unique ability to make people feel seen, valued, and loved. She touched countless lives through her kindness, her faith, and the testimony of God's work in her life. While her children often laughed about her gift for conversation, many strangers walked away feeling like lifelong friends.

Nola loved to travel and experience God's masterpieces, from the shores of Alaska to nearby scenic destinations. She enjoyed musicals, following politics, and listening to her grandson, Kyle, preach. Always eager to embrace something new, she welcomed technology, from learning to use an iPad to sending text messages to stay connected with family and friends.

She had a remarkable gift for making every occasion special. Holidays, birthdays, family gatherings, and simple moments became celebrations when Nola was involved. She was fiercely loyal, always had your back, and genuinely wanted the very best for those she loved. Above all else, Nola treasured her relationship with God and her family. Her love continues to live on through the generations that follow her and through the many lives she touched.

Nola is survived by her children, Debbie Evans Schuman and her husband, Bob Schuman; Phillip Evans and his wife, Lanita Evans; and Nicole Evans. She was blessed with six grandchildren: Kyle Evans and his wife Randi, Jenny Sharp, Jamie Langham and her husband Justin, Melinda Schuman, Todd Schuman and his wife Ashley, and Isaac Hiebert and his wife Rachele.

She also leaves behind eleven great-grandchildren: Titus Evans, Avery Evans, Aniston Evans, Jayli Sharp, Knox Sharp, Kye Sharp, Lewis Langham, Addyson Langham, Nicholas Schuman, Daniel Schuman, and Scottie Hiebert.

Nola was preceded in death by her husband, James Evans; her parents, Virgil and Lillian Herdes; and her sister, Lora Marie Herdes Smith.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, November 6, 2026, at Hahn-Cook Street & Draper Funeral Home, 6600 Broadway Extension, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. that morning. Her burial will be at Rose Hill at 6001 NW Grand Boulevard immediately following.

Nola will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever a part of our lives. Her legacy of love, kindness, faith, and friendship is one to be treasured and carried forward.

In Nola's memory, say hello to more people. Make new friends. Start a conversation. Believe that all things are possible through God who strengthens us. And always remember to stop and smell the roses before it's time to blow out the birthday candles.