Herbert James Evans

1929 - 2024

Herbert James Evans

October 3, 1929 - March 23, 2024

Antioch, CA - Jim lived a beautiful life and at the age of 94 was called back home on March 23, 2024.

Jim was born and raised in Taft, California on October 3, 1929, to Dortha Sullivan Egan and William Evans. He had one sibling, his younger sister, Helen Davis and two half-brothers, Dennis and Brent. He also lived in San Francisco for a several years with his mom and sister. Jim was baptized in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at the age of 8. From this age until his passing, he was a stalwart defender of his faith in Jesus Christ, Heavenly Father and the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ. Jim went to the University of California at Santa Barbara, where he graduated with his bachelor's degree and master's degree in education.

It was in Bakersfield, California where Jim met his beautiful bride, Carol Arlean Westberg. Their marriage was solemnized in the St George Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on April 14, 1954. They had a wonderful life together with their 6 children. Jim and Carol were together 40 years until she passed away after an extended battle with cancer 30 years ago. Their favorite love song they would sing together was "True Love." They had a special true love and devotion to each other that would help carry them through the paths of life.

As a young married couple, Jim and Carol lived and taught school in Bakersfield, California. During that time, their first four children were born (Jim, Larry, Tom, and Steve) A few years later, they moved to Mojave, California to continue their teaching where their daughter Kathy was born in Tehachapi. While living in Mojave, they felt inspired to accept a teaching opportunity in Concord, California, where their son David was born.

Jim's teaching career in Concord began with 2 years at Pine Hollow Jr. High. The remainder of his teaching career was at Clayton Valley High School where he taught Spanish, English and Driver's Training. Jim treasured his career and experiences at CVHS. He loved his engagement with his students and faculty, including the many lunch time faculty room ping-pong tournaments.

Jim was a sports enthusiast throughout his life. In high school he was an accomplished football and basketball player, and track star. As a result of his sports accomplishments, he was given the opportunity of playing football and doing track at Taft Jr. College. He also played on church basketball and softball teams. He was a great fast-pitch softball pitcher. He was cheered on by his family and friends with the chant, 'Go Herbie Go!' He even carried his passion for sports in his later years as he often participated in the Huntsman Senior Games competing in Table Tennis. Jim also loved fishing and camping. He had a love for BYU sports as an avid 'Cougar' fan.

In Mojave, Jim served as the branch president in the church. In Concord, Jim served in many church callings including high councilor, seminary teacher, seminary coordinator and various Young Men adviser roles. He participated in many scouting activities with the young men of the ward as a father and support leader. Jim loved to serve and help others. He had the most kind and tender heart.

Everyone adored Jim who had the opportunity and blessing to interact with him. Jim was always on the move with a smile on his face. Two of his favorite songs that he would often sing were "When You're Smiling," and "Route 66." He was our favorite entertainer, always busting out a song or dance. And of course, the silly "peacock!" One of his favorite words of advice were, "Keep a smile on your face and a song in your heart." He and Carol often sang together, which created a cherished family environment of love of music and family togetherness which we children hold dear.

Jim had an amazing green thumb and was always thinking about what he was going to plant next. We all enjoyed the results of his efforts- delicious fresh produce! Gardening was his happy place tending to all his fresh creations and many beautiful flowers.

After his retirement and the passing of his dear wife Carol, he later met and married Joyce. During that time, they served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Guayaquil, Ecuador. He loved working with the young missionaries helping them with their Spanish and teaching the Gospel. He also loved serving in the Los Angeles and Newport Beach California Temples for many years.

The last few years of his life, he lived in Antioch California with Steve and Cheryl Evans. He and our entire family have been so grateful for the endless love, sacrifice, and service they gave to him. Steve and Cheryl were earthly angels for our dad and our family.

Jim was proceeded in death by his parents Dortha Sullivan Egan and William Evans, his younger sister, Helen Davis and two half-brothers, Dennis and Brent, and his wife Carol Arlean Westberg Evans. He is survived by his children Jim (Tana), Larry (Kevin), Tom (Jolina), Steve (Cheryl), Kathy (Marc) Fogel, and David (Nancy), 16 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.

Thursday, April 4th:

- Viewing; Family and Friends are invited to a viewing 6-8pm at Oak Park Hills Chapel, 3111 N. Main St., Walnut Creek, CA.

Friday, April 5th:

- Interment: 10:00am at the Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Concord, CA.

- Funeral Service: 12:00 Noon at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1500 Denkinger Rd., Concord, California.

Heaven has gained a great one. We love you dad and will miss you. Until we meet again…

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Parkinson's Foundation at www.parkinson.org

There will be a link to view the Funeral Service. The link will be posted at the Oak Park City Hills Chapels website: https://www.oakparkhillschapel.com/