Jerry Lee Evins

Jerry Lee Evins, 70, of Emporia, Kansas, passed away unexpectedly on October 19, 2025, while fighting a courageous battle with cancer. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, laughter, kindness, and love. 

Born on September 8, 1955, in Manhattan, Kansas, to Lawrence and Imogene Evins, Jerry grew up with older sister Billie and brother Glen on the family’s farm in Zeandale, Kansas. He completed Zeandale Grade School’s 8th grade in May 1970, and after losing his father that summer, relocated with his mother to Littlefield, Texas, to be near family. There, Jerry attended Littlefield High School and built strong ties with family and friends in West Texas. After graduating high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1974. 

Jerry married Josephine (Jo) Solorio. They were married 25 years and were blessed by their son, Josh. A proud father and grandfather, Jerry enjoyed fishing, boy scouts, and little league with Josh. He was immensely proud of Josh, daughter-in-law, Laura, and granddaughter, Avery, and treasured every moment with them. 

Jerry later married Theresa (Terry) Meyers on August 12, 2008 and they shared 19 wonderful years together. Long-time residents of Emporia, Kansas, Jerry and Terry found joy in life’s simplest pleasures – family, friends, furry companions, cheering on the KC Chiefs, and time outdoors – and were devoted to supporting each other through all of life’s adventures. 

Jerry worked for Burlington Northern Santa Fe as a signal maintainer, dedicating many years to his career ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the railroad’s signal systems.

 He was also a proud veteran, honored for his service to our country. Jerry served in the U.S. Army, post-Vietnam Era, Private First Class - Rank E-3 from 1974-1976, and was stationed in Germany.

 In 2024, Jerry had the special opportunity to attend the Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., with Lyon County’s USD 252, allowing him to reflect on his military service. This experience was a meaningful highlight celebrating his dedication and the legacy of veterans like him. 

Jerry loved spending time with his son, Josh, tinkering in his garage and work spaces, caring for his yard, watching Westerns, listening to rock and roll, Mexican food, and enjoying quiet moments with his cat, ‘Sippi, on his lap. Known for his free spirit, passion for Harleys, and love of the open road, Jerry’s sense of humor, gentle heart, and steady presence will be deeply missed. Jerry will be forever loved and cherished by his wife Theresa “Terry” Evins; his son and daughter-in-law, Josh and Laura Evins; and his granddaughter, Avery Evins; all of Emporia; as well as four step-sons: James, Joseph, Jeffry and John Meyers - and grandsons - Jason and Jorden Meyers. He is also survived by his brother, Glen Evins and wife Linda of Wamego, Kansas, and his sister, Billie Mowrer of Mansfield, Texas, as well as many other loving family members and dear friends who held a special place in his heart. He was preceded in death by his parents, Imogene and Lawrence Evins.

 Jerry’s memory will live on in every smile he shared and life he touched. A celebration of life will be held from 1:00 P.M. until 3:30 P.M. on November 15, 2025 at the American Legion Post #5, 2921 W. 12th Ave., Emporia, KS. The family invites memorial contributions in Jerry’s honor to support the USD 252 Honor Flight program—and to help the family with final expenses. Donations may be sent to VanArsdale Funeral Services, P.O. Box #43 Lebo, KS 66856, who will ensure they are directed accordingly.