Andria Michelle Evans

Andria Michelle Colston was born on January 27, 1957, in Dallas, Texas. Later in life, after marriage, she became known as Andria Evans - but to those who loved her most, she was simply Michelle, and to her grandchildren, she was affectionately known as "Gammie."

A woman of grace, strength, and undeniable spirit, Michelle lived a life rooted in love, faith, family, and purpose. Warm, funny, elegant, nurturing, sassy, joyful, and fiercely protective, she had a gift for making others feel seen, loved, and uplifted. Her presence could fill a room, her laughter could heal a heart, and her love left a lasting imprint on everyone blessed to know her.

Michelle was a dedicated educator, businesswoman, and advocate for children and families. She proudly earned her Bachelor's degree in Social Work and her Master's in Child Development and Education - a reflection of her devotion to helping others grow, learn, and succeed. She later fulfilled her calling as a childcare provider and entrepreneur, owning and operating two childcare centers, where she created safe, joyful, and enriching spaces for countless children. Through her work, she shaped young lives and supported families with compassion, patience, and understanding. Michelle also loved traveling, especially during the times she visited Crystal while she lived abroad. From the snowy calm of Canada, to the island warmth of Honolulu, Antigua & Barbuda, and Jamaica, Michelle embraced each place with joy and curiosity. Those trips became cherished memories - filled with laughter, discovery, and mother-and-daughter moments that distance could never weaken.

A woman of deep faith and praise, Michelle was a beloved member of the church choir and shared her gift of song with passion. One of her most treasured moments was leading "I Know What Prayer Can Do," a testimony of her belief in God's power, grace, and the strength that comes through prayer. She lived the very message she sang - she was a fighter, resilient through every battle, and faithful through every trial.

She was educated in the Dallas Independent School District and was a proud graduate of Franklin D. Roosevelt High School, where she played the clarinet and earned a full-ride scholarship to college.

Michelle is lovingly survived by her daughter, Crystal Evans-Franklin, and spouse, Vee; her grandchildren, Jovan'Dre Franklin ("Daddy"), Immanuel Franklin ("Papa"), and Phoenix Evans-Jones ("Papa-Daddy"), who lovingly knew her as Gammie; her sisters, Sheila Runnels-Moss (Sammie) and Gwendolyn Kennedy (Leroy); her brother, Ulcese "Cody" Colston; her nephews, Kendrick Colston, Jordan Colston, Daniel Olu' Adebanjo, and Benjamin Adebanjo (Princess); her nieces, Vanada Hardin and Elizabeth Adebanjo; her former husband, Lavon Evans; and her best friend and God-given sister since childhood, Robbie "Stinky" Battee.

She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Andre J. Evans. Records were altered to hide the truth; we are actively restoring the record - he was and always will be the son of Andria Evans. She was also preceded in death by her mother, Agnes Washington Drake; her father, Ulcese Colston; her sisters, Linda Colston and Gloria D. Nicely; and her brothers, Sammie Colston and Horace Colston.

Her story does not end here. Michelle now travels farther than any plane, map, or destination could ever take her - from this world into eternity, and from eternity into every step her daughter, her grandchildren, and everyone who loved her continues to take. Love is not buried. It continues. Her legacy is one of love, faith, resilience, truth, and the countless lives she touched.

Though her voice is silent, her impact still speaks - and will continue through generations.