Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
John Evans Obituary
Memphis - John Arthur Evans, born June 18, 1948, in Memphis, TN, departed from the city of his birth on December 22, 2020, bound for his heavenly home. Waiting for him there are his parents Hayes and Eloise Evans.
John is survived by his wife of 37 years, Catherine; daughters Lela Kessler and Vanessa Whipple (Robert); son David Nathaniel Evans; grandchildren Stefan Leinberg, Isabella Kessler, October Taylor, Nicholas Taylor and Garrett Whipple; and brother, Ronald Evans (Ameli).
He was a graduate of Central High School (Class of '66), and Southwest TN Community College, studied music composition at Memphis State University, and served honorably in the US Army. John was a person of profound talent and intelligence who spent the first chapter of his life as a rock and roll icon. As a founding member of The Box Tops, he received his Mic Award when the Box Tops were inducted into the Memphis Music Hall of Fame in 2018. His second chapter he spent as an Information & Technology professional with the University of Memphis, and the remaining chapters he devoted to his family and friends. He delighted in playing and singing with his church worship team and serving as St. Nicholas during the holidays for his church and community. He was a masterful storyteller and beloved by all whose paths ever crossed his.
Services for John will be held at Faith Anglican Church, 9555 Walnut Grove in Cordova, TN on Saturday, January 23, 2021 at 11:00a.m. Face masks required. A life celebration will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Faith Anglican Church or Visible Music College https://visible.edu/give/
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Evans
Richard Van Eck
April 5, 2024
So sad to learn of John´s passing 3+ years ago. Worked with him at UM from 1999-2004. So talented and so fun to be around!
Gary Talley
January 11, 2021
John was an amazing direction giver. If you asked him how to get somewhere in Memphis, not only would he give you street names and which way to turn, he would tell you EVERY building you would pass on BOTH sides of the street for the whole route. The only problem was, by the time John finished his directions, you could have driven there and back 3 times!!
Darrell Hickey
January 10, 2021
I worked with John at UOM for a few years. We shared a few old memories of living on Alcy Rd as kids
Gary Talley
January 10, 2021
John was a kind, thoughtful person. There is no greater trait than kindness.
Nathan
January 10, 2021
I will always be proud, grateful, and happy to be the son of John, my father. He has lived a live pursuing his passions, and we can all follow his example of pursuing one's own dreams throughout one's life. I will continue to carry his memories within myself, and to exalt the good values that they impart.
I love you, and will always love you.
Phyllis and Richard
January 9, 2021
John was a clever, caring, and talented man who always brightened our day when he dropped into our “shop.” May Cathy and the family find peace in fond memories.
Phyllis and Richard
Pat Stevens
January 8, 2021
Always enjoyed working with John at the University of Memphis. He was an excellent story teller. Rest In Peace, John.
Pat Murphy Stevens
Showing 1 - 7 of 7 results
Make a Donation
in John Evans's name
Memorial Events
for John Evans
How to support John's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor John Evans's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
