If we believe that when someone shows you who they are, you should believe them, then those of us are fortunate enough to have known Trustee Willie Ray Evans are better for it.

Willie Ray Evans was born on October 22, 1940, to the late Virginia T. Newby and Jackson Evans, Sr. He was the fourth of nine children, born healthy and full of promise.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Fannie “Duck” Evans; his sons, Ray A. Evans and Lennie P. Miles; his siblings, Jackson Evans, Jr., Joyce Lane, James A. Evans, Theresa Holmes, and Richard L. Evans; his great-granddaughter, A’zhari; his parents-in-law, Elijah and Daisy C. Stokes; and his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Lennie Stokes, Rev. Johnny Warren, Sr., and Barbara Stokes.

He was raised and educated in the Isle of Wight and Surry school systems.

At an early age, seeking strength and direction, he joined Mt. Moriah A.M.E. Church. For more than 65 years, he remained a devoted servant to his Lord and his church, serving in nearly every capacity except pastor and missionary. He served faithfully as Head Steward, Trustee, Superintendent and Treasurer of the Sunday School, Sexton, and a member of the Male Chorus. His love for music was ever-present, and he could often be heard singing his favorite hymns, “Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross” and “Nearer, My God, to Thee.” His service to God was deeply personal and filled with joy.

He married the late Fannie “Duck” Evans, and together they were blessed with five children. Their family endured the heartbreaking loss of their eldest son, Ray A. Evans, at the age of two. Remaining steadfast in faith, he continued to provide love and care for his family. Tragedy struck again when Fannie passed away at the age of 28. Still unwavering, he leaned on his faith and continued to raise his children.

In time, he met Betty Ann Stokes, whose compassion and understanding brought renewed strength to his life. Their courtship led to marriage and the blending of a loving family. From this union, he gained two more children, whom he embraced fully as his own.

He began his working career at Smithfield Packing Company and later joined Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company, where he dedicated 43 years of faithful service.

Never one to sit idle, he later founded Evans’ Gardens, where he cultivated and shared fresh vegetables with widows, neighbors, and the community. He became a familiar and beloved presence at the Surry Farmers Market and the Isle of Wight Farmers Market, forming lasting friendships along the way. A true master gardener, he possessed a remarkable green thumb and a generous spirit.

His greatest loves were his family and his church. He cherished his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His deep bass voice singing “Happy Birthday,” along with his wisdom and counsel, will be dearly missed.

He was also active in the community, serving in several civic organizations, including the George H. Dabney Lodge #201, the Surry Progressive Men’s Club, and the Runnymede Sportsman Club.

In the early morning hours of Thursday, April 2, 2026, he began to experience discomfort and asked to be taken to the hospital. Though he never complained, this marked the beginning of his final journey. With courage and quiet strength, he endured his illness. His medical team admired his spirit, often remarking that patients like him made their work a joy. His final wish was to return home to be with his family.

Even in his illness, his concern remained for others. As his days grew shorter, he expressed his readiness to meet his Heavenly Father. Surrounded by his loving family, who shared words of love and sang his favorite hymn, he peacefully transitioned. He now rests in the presence of God, reunited with those who went before him. Though he will be deeply missed, we take comfort in knowing he is at peace.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 52 years, Betty A. Evans; his loving children, Helen Evans, Ellen Ellis, Chanel Johnson (Pernell), Alvin Evans (Beulah), and Gail Evans-Jones (Lionel); his daughter-in-law, Tracey Miles; his cherished grandchildren, Chris Evans (Vania), Porche Johnson, Fanaye Brown (Sheldon), Brittney Artis (Tony), Nachell Jones, Jay Jones (DeWanda), Tyree Jones, and Beck Pasquale (Yaser); and his beloved great-grandchildren, Brennan, Seth, Layla, Braylon, Toni, A’zahiah, Zhariyelle, and Amina.

He is also survived by his siblings, Rossie Evans, William D. Evans (Divrine), and Rosemary Williams; his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Frances Evans, Novella Evans, Ronnie Stokes, Irene Warren, Jerry Stokes (Phyllis), Vivian Mungo (Joe, Sr.), Regina Evans (Melvin), Patrick Duck, and Melissa Duck; his dear friends, Harold Wiley, Julie Hopkins, George Jarvis, Chester Weaver, Joseph Spratley, Skip Sharpley, Burrell Robinson, Bishop Harold Pretlow, and Joshua Shears; and a host of devoted nieces, nephews, church family, community members, and friends.

Willie Ray Evans made his community better. He was a man of service, a man of faith, and a steadfast pillar in his church and community. He loved the Lord deeply and lived a life that reflected that love.

Celebration of Life service for
Trustee Willie Ray Evans will be 12:00 noon Saturday, April 25,2026 at Mt Nebo Baptist Church located at 5738 Colonial Trail East Surry, Virginia. 

Burial will be at Mt Moriah Church Cemetery located at 8438 White Marsh Road Elberon,Virginia.

Viewing will be 4:00 - 6:30 on Friday, April 24,2026 at Mt Nebo Baptist Church.

Please keep the Evans family in your thoughts and prayers.