marvin evans
1910-1962
Life Story
A Legacy Rooted in Labor, Faith, and Family
Early Life in the Altare Community
Marvin Evans was born around 1910 in the historic Altare Community of Newton County, Mississippi, to Elias Evans (1875–1951) and Rachael Jane Cotton Evans (1874–1971). Raised in a region shaped by deep agricultural traditions, Marvin’s early years were spent working alongside his family in the fields—planting, cultivating, and harvesting crops that sustained their livelihood. Though he never attended school, he grew up learning invaluable lessons in responsibility, resilience, and perseverance, passed down through generations of Evans and Cotton family lines.
Like many children born into farming families during the early 20th century, Marvin’s world revolved around the rhythms of the land. Hard work was not merely an expectation—it was a way of life. Those who knew him remembered his quiet determination and unwavering dedication to his family’s well-being.
Marriage and Family Life
By 1930, Marvin had married Rosie Lee Jordan (1914–?), beginning a partnership defined by shared labor, mutual devotion, and a commitment to raising a strong and united family. Together, they welcomed seven children, each contributing to the ever-expanding Evans legacy:
- Mabelle Evans (1931–?)
- Tommie James Evans (1933–?)
- Mertis Evans (1934–?)
- Maggie L. Evans (1935–?)
- Sammie Evans (1938–?)
- Alfonzo Evans (1940–?)
- Frankie B. Evans (1942–?)
Rosie and Marvin cultivated a home grounded in warmth, discipline, and faith—values that fortified their children as they grew into adulthood and built lives of their own.
Seeking Opportunity: Rankin and Hinds Counties
By 1940, Marvin sought improved opportunities for his young family, prompting a move to Rankin County, where he worked approximately 40 hours per week as a laborer. His work often included manual labor, agricultural tasks, and the daily duties required to support his growing household.
A decade later, the family relocated to Jackson, Mississippi, in Hinds County, joining the wave of rural Black families who migrated toward urban centers during the mid-20th century. In Jackson, Marvin found steady work performing yard and grounds maintenance for a private resident—a role through which he became a familiar figure in his neighborhood. His determination to provide for his family remained steadfast, even amid the challenges of the era.
A Man of Faith
While in Newton County, Marvin was a faithful member of Altare Missionary Baptist Church, where he participated in church life and contributed to the spiritual foundation of his community. After relocating to Jackson, he joined a local Baptist congregation and remained active in his faith, forging new relationships and continuing the religious traditions of his upbringing.
His devotion to family and church formed the cornerstone of his identity, linking him to the long lineage of Evans descendants who sought strength, hope, and endurance through faith.
Passing and Legacy
On July 18, 1962, Marvin Evans passed away unexpectedly at the age of 52 in Jackson, Mississippi. His death left a deep void among family, friends, and the many communities that had shaped his life. His funeral was held at Altare Baptist Church, officiated by Rev. Johnny Smith and assisted by Rev. J.F. Moore, in a service filled with heartfelt reflections and tributes.
Marvin was laid to rest in the Altare graveyard, joining generations of his ancestors and kin whose stories remain intertwined with the history of the Altare community.
He was survived by:
- Four sons: Tommie, Sammie, Alfonzo, and Frankie of Jackson
- His mother: Rachael Jane Cotton Evans of Gulfport
- Four brothers: Eligah and Willie Alvin of Newton; Abron of Gulfport; Ervin of Laurel
- Six sisters: Louise Arrington and Erma Hillie of Newton; Annie Lee Morris of New Orleans; Curlie Winn of Gulfport; Lela Woods and Flora Walton of Laurel
Through them—and through the countless stories told at family gatherings—Marvin’s legacy endures as a testament to his strength, humility, and unwavering devotion.
Sidebar: At a Glance — Marvin Evans
Born: ca. 1910 – Altare Community, Newton County, MS
Parents: Elias Evans & Rachael Jane Cotton Evans
Occupation: Farm laborer; later yard maintenance worker
Education: No formal schooling
Church Membership: Altare M.B. Church; later a Jackson Baptist Church
Married: Rosie Lee Jordan (m. ca. 1930)
Children: 7 — Mabelle, Tommie, Mertis, Maggie, Sammie, Alfonzo, Frankie
Migration: Newton ➝ Rankin County ➝ Jackson (Hinds County)
Died: July 18, 1962 – Jackson, MS (age ~52)
Burial: Altare M.B. Church Graveyard
Legacy: A man remembered for steadfast labor, quiet dignity, and devotion to faith and family
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
- The Newton Record, Marvin Evans Obituary, Wed, Jul 18, 1962 ·Page 9
- U.S., Find a Grave® Index, 1600s-Current
- U.S., Social Security Applications and Claims Index, 1936-2007
- U.S., Social Security Death Index, 1935-2014
- U.S., World War II Draft Cards Young Men, 1940-1947
Leave a Reply