Evelyn Ruth Downs

Bethany - Evelyn Ruth Downs passed from this life on August 10, 2023. Born in a small Nebraska town on August 5, 1930, she came to Oklahoma to attend Bethany Peniel College, now Southern Nazarene University, in 1948. Evelyn majored in biology, graduating with high honors in 1952. While at Bethany she met and married Charles Ralph Downs of Louisiana, the love of her life. Ralph was an educator in Putnam City Schools where he eventually served as Superintendent from 1978 to 1992. Evelyn supported her husband faithfully in his career.

Also an educator, Evelyn taught at many different levels, totaling 25 years. An avid learner and reader, she maintained a lifelong interest in history and science. She ended her teaching career at Southern Nazarene University, teaching Freshman Composition.

After retirement she enjoyed volunteering as a tutor with a literacy group and at Even Start. Evelyn later began volunteer work at Deaconess Hospital, continuing there for over 20 years. In her latter years she ran around with a lively group of friends to various plays, ballgames, and other church and university activities. She spent her final years at Southern Plaza Retirement Center.

Evelyn was a member of Bethany First Church of the Nazarene from 1952 until her death, serving on the church board for several years. She also served as a Sunday school teacher, missionary chapter president, and choir member for over 50 years.

Preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Laura Carothers, her husband Ralph, and her beloved sister Joan, Evelyn is survived by son David Downs (wife Susan), daughter Carol Rohr, daughter Andrea Guynn (husband Darrell), and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She went to be with the Lord just a few days after her 93rd birthday and will be greatly missed by her family and friends.