nancy j. evans gary
1915-1976
Life Story
Laid to Rest at Evans Cemetery
Birth and Family Background
Nancy J. Evans was born on April 10, 1915, in Newton County, Mississippi, to Scott Evans (1867–1925) and Nancy Bolton Evans (1868–1965). She grew up as part of the large Evans–Bolton family, one of the foundational families of the Altare and Pilgrim Grove communities.
Faith and Community Life
At an early age, Nancy joined Pilgrim Grove Presbyterian Church, where she remained a faithful member throughout her life. She was remembered as devoted, steady, and deeply rooted in Christian service—traits frequently acknowledged by family and community.
Marriage and Children
Nancy first married C.P. Darby, and six children were born from this union:
- Myra Jane Darby (1935–?)
- Katherine Darby (1937–?)
- Ida Lois Darby (1939–?)
- Fannie Pearl Darby (1941–?)
- Annie Merle Darby (1941–?)
- Ellie Mae Darby (1947–?)
By 1950, Nancy was separated from C.P. Darby and raising her children on her own. She supported her household through housekeeping, a common and essential occupation for Black women during this period, especially single mothers.
Later in life, she married Albert Gary, becoming part of the Gary family and extending her connections within the larger Newton County community.
Extended Family Connections
Nancy was part of a wide circle of siblings whose names appear across local records and obituaries. Her brothers and sisters included:
- A.G. Evans (Archie G. Evans)
- James Walker Evans
- Archie Evans of Hattiesburg
- Dr. C.B. Evans of Jackson
- Charlie Evans of St. Petersburg, FL
- Fannie H. Heard
- Myra English
- Essie J. Earnest
These family ties reflect not only biological relationships but also the powerful networks of kinship that shaped life in the Pilgrim Grove community.
Passing and Burial
Nancy J. Gary passed away on September 15, 1976, at her home. Funeral services were held at Pilgrim Grove Presbyterian Church, with Rev. J.W. Rigsby officiating and a musical tribute by Rev. Frank Moore.
She was laid to rest at the Evans Cemetery, among generations of her family.
She was remembered as a strong mother, a devoted church worker, and a woman whose life touched countless relatives, including 18 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Resting Place
Photos/Albums
Sources
- 1920 Federal Census
- 1950 Federal Census
- U.S., Social Security Death Index, 1935-2014
- U.S., Find a Grave® Index, 1600s-Current
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