mary lois walker evans
1926-2009
Life Story
Laid to Rest at Evans Graveyard
Birth and Family Background
Mary Lois Walker Evans was born in 1924 in Newton County, Mississippi. She was the daughter of Annie Bell Walker (1899–1966), a central figure in the Walker family whose lineage extends deeply into the Altare and Mt. Moriah communities.
Early Life and Education
By the 1940 census, Mary Lois had completed the 1st grade of elementary school. Like many African American children in rural Mississippi during this era, her education was likely limited by agricultural labor demands, seasonal school schedules, and the inequities of segregated schooling.
She grew up surrounded by extended family, community kinship networks, and the strong traditions of faith and perseverance that shaped the Walker and Evans families.
Marriage and Family
Mary Lois married Leavy Evans (1909–1983), and together they established their home within the longstanding Evans settlement. From their union, the following children were born:
- Charlie Evans, Jr. (1943–?)
- Willie Lee Evans (1943–1974)
- Easter Jane Evans (1944–?)
- Rose Mae Evans (1946–?)
Census records and later obituary listings suggest that Mary Lois also played a caregiving role to additional children and stepchildren who were part of the household at different times—a reflection of the extended family systems common in the Evans community.
Later Life and Passing
Mary Lois Walker Evans lived a long life spanning eras of profound change—from the Jim Crow period through the Civil Rights Movement and into the early 21st century. She passed away in 2009, leaving behind a large family rooted in both Newton County and across the United States.
She was laid to rest at the Evans Graveyard, among generations of her loved ones.
Resting Place
Photos/Albums
Sources
- 1930 Federal Census
- 1940 Federal Census
- 1950 Federal Census
- The Newton Record, Annie Bell Walker Obituary, Wed, Nov 30, 1966 ·Page 11
- U.S., Find a Grave® Index, 1600s-Current
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