Mary Evans

Mary Alyce Proctor Evans transitioned to a peaceful sleep on Wednesday, November 2, 2022 at her home in Greensboro, North Carolina surrounded by her children and loved ones.

Mary Alyce was born in Knoxville, Tennessee on October 27, 1924 to Joseph Andrew Proctor and Idelia Jane Simpson Proctor. She was the oldest of four children all of whom preceded her in death. She graduated as salutatorian from Austin High School in Knoxville, Tennessee in 1943. She was married to David Lee Evans, Sr., and to that union, were born nine children. She was a strong and loving mother. After unfortunate circumstances, she was responsible for the rearing of nine children. She was committed to her family, instilling love, and a strong work ethic, which she faithfully modeled. My mother worked several jobs to care for us. Her final employment was with Social Services, where she retired twice. After which, she cared for children in her home.

Mary Alyce was the beloved mother of nine children: David Lee Evans, Dr. Patricia Evans Legrand, Jacquelyn Campbell (Walter), Joseph Alvin Evans, Steven Leon Evans, Karen Evans Yusuf (deceased), Gregory Wayne Evans Sr., Melinda Evans Miller, Audrey Louella Evans (deceased). Mary Alice loved her grandchildren: Adrienne Legrand-Glenn (Rodney), Dr. Shannon Legrand, Walter Campbell Jr. (Kemi), Bradford Campbell, Farrah Campbell Nipper, Joseph Evans Jr. (Joey), Derrick Evans, Terry Evans (Anya), Audrey Evans (deceased), Kelsie Evans, Stevie Evans, Gregory Evans, Jr. (Alyssa), Jeanette Evans, Eugene Evans (Dr. Jasmine), and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Granny’s Bonus Daughters: Cassandra Evans, Yvonne Evans, Pamela Gaddy, Annette Bryant, and Kathy Artis.

Mary Alyce joined East Market Street SDA Church in 1963, along with her family, where she was a faithful member. Our Sabbaths were a reprieve from the poverty in which we lived. We saw and experienced a better way of life each week. East Market Street Church nourished the entire family and provided generously on our behalf. My mom received emotional support and acceptance from other mothers with young children. She also received guidance from the middle-aged and older ladies who served as role models on how to keep the Sabbath. Church fellowship was amazing!!! East Market Street Church was truly a place of love and acceptance. These experiences raised our expectations of a better life. God allowed us to purchase a house in Greensboro years later. When our conditions improved, we extended the same hospitality that was shown to us to new members and visitors by preparing Sabbath dinner weekly.

Mary Alyce served in several capacities which included Ladies Auxiliary and Deaconess. As Deaconess, she prepared meals for bereaved families for many years. Her favorite church involvement was Community Services, providing food weekly for the community. She was affectionately called “Granny” by many, especially the young people.

Our mother was quiet and unassuming. She was an avid reader and an amazing seamstress. As a world traveler, she passed this love to her children and grandchildren. We especially enjoyed traveling as a family and creating so many beautiful memories that we will cherish always.

The family appreciates the exceptional care provided by AuthoraCare Collective in Burlington, North Carolina. The assigned doctor, nurses, CNAs, and chaplain administered excellent tender loving care, not only for our precious mom, but for our family as well.

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