Evelyn P. Severns

Evelyn Patricia Severns
Professionally Known as Pat Vern-Harris
Ms. Severns flew with the angels Tuesday, December 19, 2023 after a short, but severe illness and is now at peace.
Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Ms. Severns attended the University of Iowa where she met the love of her life and husband, Dr. James G Severns (Professor Emeritus, Truman State University) of Chicago, Illinois 63 years ago. She leaves behind three adult children: Frances Severns Kottwitz (Terry) of Anacortes, Washington, David R Severns of Kirksville, Missouri, and John R Severns of Chicago; grandchildren Andrew Kottwitz, Lauren Kottwitz, Alexia Meneeley, Stephanie Severns (Soto), Hilary Newman, Alan Severns and Ryan Wasney; four great-grandchildren and other family members and friends too numerous to list.
She completed her education at Truman State University, Kirksville, with a BA English and MA English; as a fine actress and theater fanatic, she became very active in the university, community theater and professional world. She appeared in or was heard in numerous productions – stage, radio, television, film -- over her more than 60 years of professional acting. A member of professional unions SAG-AFTRA and Actor's Equity, she appeared in comedic, dramatic and musical roles across the country and in Canada.
Ms. Severns touched many, many lives during her life through exemplary teaching, directing, philanthropy and a wicked sense of humor. She will be sorely missed.
Services will take place at Central Chapel, 6158 South Central Avenue, Chicago, IL on Saturday, January 20, 2024, 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm with a short memorial at 6:00 pm.
Please visit EVELYN PATRICIA SEVERNS BOOK OF MEMORIES. To express your thoughts or memories in the online guest book, visit www.chapelc.com or www.facebook.com/centralchapel. Info., 773 581 9000.