rankin evans
1883-1961
Life Story
Birth & Parentage
Rankin Evans was born around September 7, 1883, likely in Newton County, Mississippi, to Peter Evans, Jr. (1866–?) and Lizzie Evans (1859–?). Census and community records consistently place Rankin within the Evans family network long established in the county.
Early Life & Occupation
In his early years, Rankin Evans worked as a farm laborer, reflecting the agricultural foundation of the Evans family and the broader rural economy of Newton County in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
Marriage & Family
In the early 1900s, Rankin married Viola Dawkins Evans (1886–1983). This union produced a large family, several of whom remained closely tied to the St. John community and surrounding areas.
The known children of Rankin and Viola Evans include:
- Daulton Evans (1905–?)
- Elizabeth Evans (1906–?)
- Claudie Evans (1908–?)
- Oscar Evans (1912–?)
- Emma Evans (1914–1993)
- Luella Evans (1916–?)
- James Clyde Evans, Sr. (1918–1990)
- Elvira Evans (1921–?)
- May L. Evans (1924–?)
- Weldon Evans (1925–?)
- Willie R. Evans (1927–?)
- Infant Son (1928–1928)
This family structure is supported by census records, obituary notices, and church-related documentation.
Later Years
Rankin Evans remained rooted in Newton County throughout his life. Newspaper notices and family acknowledgments following his death reflect the respect he held within both his family and the wider community.
Death & Burial
Rankin Evans passed away on January 1, 1961. He is laid to rest at Saint John Missionary Baptist Church Graveyard in Newton County, Mississippi, alongside many members of the extended Evans family.
Resting Place
Saint John Missionary Baptist Church Graveyard
Photos/Albums

Sources
- 1900 Federal Census
- 1920 Federal Census
- 1940 Federal Census
- U.S., Find A Grave Index, 1600s-Current
- U.S., Social Security Applications and Claims Index, 1936-2007
- The Newton Record, Card of Thanks, Wed, Jan 11, 1961 ·Page 2
- U.S., World War I Civilian Draft Registrations, 1917-1918
- The Newton Record, Poll Tax Newton Precinct, Thu, Mar 20, 1913 ·Page 3
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