lonnie evans
1925-1976
Life Story
Birth & Parentage
Lonnie Evans was born on January 1, 1925, in Newton County, Mississippi, to Haught Evans (1905–1984) and Velma Jane Wesley Evans (1907–?). He was a native of Newton and spent his early years in the rural farming community that shaped much of his life.
Early Life & Occupation
In his early adulthood, Lonnie worked as a farmer, reflecting the agricultural livelihood common among African American families in Newton County during the mid-20th century. Later in life, he relocated to Gulfport, Mississippi, where he resided for approximately 20 years prior to his death.
Military Service
Lonnie Evans proudly served in the United States Army during World War II.
- Enlistment Date: May 7, 1945
- Discharge Date: December 5, 1946
His service placed him among the many Newton County men who contributed to the war effort during the final phase of World War II.
Marriage & Family
Lonnie married Dessie Ree Evans (1931–?). From this union, the following children are listed in his obituary:
- Odell Evans, Gulfport, Mississippi
- Derrick Evans, Biloxi, Mississippi
- Mildred Jean Evans Davis, Gulfport, Mississippi
- Mary Ellen Evans, Gulfport, Mississippi
Extended Family
Additional survivors named in the obituary include:
- Father: Haught Evans (then residing in Iowa)
- Grandmother: Mrs. Esther Wesley, Gulfport, Mississippi
- Sister: Mrs. Bessie McLemore, Gulfport, Mississippi
- Brother: Woodrow Wesley, Gulfport, Mississippi
- Three grandchildren
Death & Burial
Lonnie Evans passed away on December 23, 1976, and was pronounced dead on arrival at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Biloxi, Mississippi. Funeral services were held at St. John Baptist Church in Newton, with Rev. Purvis Moore, pastor, officiating.
He was laid to rest at St. John Missionary Baptist Church Graveyard, returning him to the community where his life began.
Resting Place
Saint John Missionary Baptist Church Graveyard
Photos/Albums
Sources
- 1940 Federal Census
- 1950 Federal Census
- U.S., Find A Grave Index, 1600s-Current
- The Sun, Lonnie Evans Obituary, Mon, Dec 27, 1976 ·Page 4
- U.S. WWII Draft Cards Young Men, 1940-1947
- U.S., Department of Veterans Affairs BIRLS Death File, 1850-2010
- U.S., Headstone Applications for Military Veterans, 1861-1985
- U.S., Social Security Death Index, 1935-2014
- U.S., World War II Army Enlistment Records, 1938-1946
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