Tommy Royce Evins

1937 - 2022

ODESSA - Tommy Royce Evins of Odessa, age 84, passed away on August 17, 2022. Born December 9, 1937 in his Littlefield home to J.D. and Connie Evins, he grew up in Littlefield, with a love for music and with the love of his life, Gracie Russell, whom he married July 1, 1961. After a year studying at Bob Jones University in Greenville, SC, Tommy continued his education at Eastern New Mexico University, graduating in 1962. He taught music and directed bands in schools across eastern New Mexico and the Texas Panhandle, serving also in the music ministries of the churches his family attended. Friends from that era fondly recalled the duets he and Gracie sang.

After 15 years in education, Tommy and his family came to Odessa in 1976 where he began his over 40-year career as a musical instrument technician. He learned on-the-job at May and Duncan and then used his skill to help open Caldwell Music and later NTune Music. He became a master of woodwind repair and was trusted by many players in the Basin who would bring him their instruments even after they left the area.

Tommy continued to serve with music as he and Gracie would go play and sing for "the old folks" in a care home in Midland. He was active in the music of his Sunday School class at First Baptist Odessa until he was no longer physically able to participate.

Tommy was passionate about music in general, Puccini and Mahler in particular, Odessa band programs and students, and Mojo football. He never met a pun or an Aggie joke he didn't like. His sense of humor and good nature endeared him to his music and church communities.

Tommy was preceded in death by his parents J.D. and Connie; his brothers James and Kenneth; and his granddaughter Bethany Heckart.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Gracie; daughter, Linda Heckart (David) of Albuquerque, NM, daughter Carol Stettheimer (Timothy) of Birmingham, AL; grandchildren, Holly Heckart and Peter, Sarah, Katie and Samuel Stettheimer; and many loving nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Monday, August 22, 2022 at 11 AM at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home with Craig Evins officiating.