lemon evans
1902-1957
Life Story
A Devoted Farmer, Family Man, and Faithful Servant of Altare
Early Life and Family Roots
Lemon Evans was born around 1902 in Newton County, Mississippi, to Gus Evans (1869–?) and Martha A. Evans (1874–?), descendants of a line of resilient farmers who laid the foundation for one of the most enduring African American families in the Altare community. Raised amid the challenges and rhythms of rural life, Lemon learned early the value of perseverance, faith, and honest labor.
He attended school through the sixth grade, a notable accomplishment during a time when Black education in the South was underfunded and access was limited. While continuing his schooling, Lemon assisted his father in the fields, cultivating both crops and a strong work ethic that would guide him throughout his life.
Marriage and Family
Around 1920, Lemon married Rebecca Walker (1898–1943), the daughter of Sam Walker, Sr. (1875-?) and Kitson Lassiter (1876-?), uniting two well-established families of Newton County—the Evans and Walker lines—whose histories were deeply intertwined with the Altare and Lawrence communities. Together, they cultivated the land and raised a large family, emphasizing values such as faith, integrity, and self-reliance.
From their union, the following children were born:
- George Evans (1920–?)
- Rosa Evans (1921–?)
- John C. Evans (1923–?)
- Lenton Evans (1924–2006)
- James W. Evans (1925–?)
- Claudie Evans (1926–1928)
- Abraham Evans (1926–1928)
- Will S. Evans (1927–?)
- Willie Lee Evans (1931–?)
- Lula Mae Evans (1933–?)
- H. S. Evans (1937–?)
- Sadie Pearl Evans (1939–?)
- Leonard Evans (1939–?)
His second marriage was with Alice Evans (1903-?). The following child was born:
- D. W. McCune (1946–?)
The untimely deaths of Claudie and Abraham in 1928 deeply affected Lemon and Rebecca, yet their shared faith sustained them. They continued to nurture their remaining children with love and discipline, ensuring that each grew to embody the values that defined their household.
Faith, Labor, and Community
Lemon devoted his life to farming, an occupation that not only sustained his family but also linked him to generations of Evans ancestors who tilled the same Mississippi soil. His fields were more than places of labor—they were spaces of prayer, endurance, and pride. Neighbors often remembered Lemon’s quiet determination and generosity, always ready to lend a hand or offer a kind word.
His deep faith found its expression in his lifelong commitment to Altare Missionary Baptist Church, where he was an active member. Whether attending services, supporting church programs, or helping maintain the grounds, Lemon’s presence was a constant source of strength to the congregation.
Final Years and Lasting Legacy
In August 1957, Lemon’s health declined suddenly after a brief illness. Surrounded by loved ones, he passed away peacefully at his daughter’s home on August 25, 1957, at approximately 55 years of age.
His funeral service was held at Altare Missionary Baptist Church, the spiritual home that had guided his life’s journey. Rev. Jim S. Spinks officiated the service, speaking warmly of Lemon’s faith, humility, and devotion to his family. He was laid to rest in the Altare M.B. Church graveyard, where generations of Evans family members now rest.
Those who knew Lemon remembered him for his gentle humor, his firm integrity, and his quiet strength—a man who measured life not by wealth or status, but by love, labor, and the bonds of kinship.
Sidebar: Lemon Evans (1902–1957)
Birth: c. 1902 – Newton County, Mississippi
Parents: Gus Evans (1869–?) and Martha A. Evans (1874–?)
Spouse: Rebecca Walker (1900–1970) and Alice Evans (1903-?)
Children: 14 known (see list above)
Occupation: Farmer and community member
Education: Completed 6th grade
Death: August 25, 1957 – at daughter’s home, Newton County, MS
Cause of Death: Brief illness
Funeral: Altare Missionary Baptist Church, Rev. Jim S. Spinks officiating
Burial: Altare M.B. Church Graveyard
Legacy: Remembered for faith, humility, and steadfast devotion to family and community
Resting Place
Altare Missionary Baptist Church Graveyard
Photos/Albums
Sources
- 1910 Federal Census
- 1920 Federal Census
- 1930 Federal Census
- 1940 Federal Census
- 1950 Federal Census
- U.S., Social Security Applications and Claims Index, 1936-2007
- U.S., World War II Draft Cards Young Men, 1940-1947
- U.S., Find A Grave Index, 1600s-Current
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