James “Jim” Ray Evans

James (Jim) Ray Evans passed away peacefully on November 2 at Morningside Memory Care in Concord, NC, after a long fight with Parkinsons and dementia. Born June 10th, 1938 in Avon, Illinois, to Phyllis and James Evans, he was the eldest of five children. He married Karen May Paul on April 16th, 1961 where they enjoyed over 64 years together. He was a friend to everyone he met, had a sharp sense of humor, a strong sense of responsibility, and dedication to family.

Jim lived in in Bushnell Ill. until his adulthood, graduating from Bushnell/Prairie City High School in 1956. In addition to lettering in 4 sports (football, basketball, baseball, and track), he was an accomplished musician where he achieved All-State status playing the clarinet. Jim joined the Air Force where he had a distinguished 20-year career in a variety of roles – draftsman, teacher, staffing engineer, efficiency engineer. He and Karen together with their 3 kids, travelled the length and breadth of the United States with posts in Illinois, Tennessee, Alaska, California, Mississippi, and Delaware.

After leaving the service, Jim enjoyed another 20+ year career in the healthcare industry (again with multiple moves to Indiana, North Carolina, Florida, Alabama) before ultimately ending up back in Bushnell. He and Karen enjoyed reconnecting with old friends and extended family during their time in Bushnell where Jim served as mayor from 2013 to 2017. Their final move in 2019 was to Concord, North Carolina to be closer to kids, grandkids and great grandkids.

Jim enjoyed travel, golf, and fishing, but mostly enjoyed his music. In addition to the clarinet (which he picked back up after retirement), he taught himself the piano, guitar, and trumpet. He shared his talents through church choirs, local orchestras, and community groups.

Jim is survived by his wife Karen, daughter Diane (Boyce), sons Tony (Lauren) and Eric (Kristen); grandchildren Hannah, Caitlyn, Kyle, Cole; great grandchildren Brayden, Lincoln and multiple nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, stepfather Ed Whitier, brothers Kurt and Dick, and sisters Janet and Anne.

A visitation will be held from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on November 21, 2025 at Martin Hollis Funeral Home followed by a graveside service. Memorials can be sent to the United Methodist Church in Bushnell, Illinois.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Concord is serving the Evans family.