clyde evans
1924-2013
Life Story
Early Life & Family
Clyde Evans was born on September 5, 1924, in Newton County, Mississippi, to Pete Evans (1888–1988) and Lula McDonald Evans (1894–2006). He was raised in a large farming household where work, faith, and cooperation were essential to daily life. Like many children in the Evans family, Clyde labored on the home farm from an early age, contributing to the family’s survival during the Depression-era years.
Military Service
Clyde Evans was a veteran of World War II. He enlisted in the United States Army on February 8, 1943, and served honorably until his discharge on December 31, 1945. His military service placed him among a generation of Newton County men whose wartime experiences broadened their outlook while reinforcing discipline, responsibility, and commitment to community upon their return home.
Work & Community Life
Following his military service, Clyde returned to Newton County, where he worked in various capacities. Newspaper records indicate that he was employed as a janitor, a role that—while often understated—was essential to maintaining public and institutional spaces in the community.
Beyond wage labor, Clyde was deeply involved in the cultural and spiritual life of Newton County. He became known for his participation in gospel music and radio ministry, blending faith, music, and outreach in ways that reflected long-standing African American religious traditions.
Gospel Music & Radio Ministry
Clyde Evans was a familiar voice to local listeners through his Sunday morning radio broadcasts. He hosted a spiritual music program that featured gospel selections and Black spirituals, providing encouragement, worship, and continuity for listeners across the county.
He was also associated with gospel quartet groups, including Clyde Evans & the Harmoniers, and regularly appeared in programming lineups alongside other local gospel musicians. His involvement reflects the important role that radio played in rural Black communities—as both a ministry tool and a cultural connector—during the mid- to late-twentieth century.
Death & Burial
Clyde Evans passed away on July 11, 2013. He is laid to rest at Saint John Missionary Baptist Church graveyard in Newton County, Mississippi, joining generations of Evans family members whose lives collectively reflect faith, service, and endurance.
Resting Place
Saint John Missionary Baptist Church Graveyard
Photos/Albums
Sources
- 1930 Federal Census
- 1940 Federal Census
- U.S., Find A Grave Index, 1600s-Current
- U.S., Social Security Death Index, 1935-2014
- The Newton Record, Wed, Feb 10, 1965 ·Page 4
- U.S. Public Records Index, 1950-1993, Volume 1
- U.S. Public Records Index, 1950-1993, Volume 2
- U.S. WWII Draft Cards Young Men, 1940-1947
- U.S., Department of Veterans Affairs BIRLS Death File, 1850-2010
- U.S., World War II Army Enlistment Records, 1938-1946
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