Earl Lincoln Evans

On the 54th anniversary of his retirement and at the joyful age of 101, Dad retired again on Aug 1, 2024.

Earl Lincoln Evans was born the sixth child of William Albert Evans and Jennie Margaret Gilbert Evans on Dec. 23, 1922 in Blairsville, GA.

Dad lost his father as a young boy, and along with his sister Audrey, and dedicated himself to ensuring his mom was cared for. 

At seventeen he spent a year in CA in a Civilian Conservation Corps Camp prior to enlisting in the Navy where he served in the South Pacific during WWII. He later joined the Air Force, serving during the Korean Conflict and in Vietnam. Dad retired from military service on Aug 1, 1970 after twenty-seven years. 

Once retired, Dad became a "gentleman farmer" enjoying his cattle, horses, emus, and garden. 

Dad was a proud member of Thomas A. Hamilton Masonic Lodge in Riceville, TN for 34 years. He was a true believer in service to country, family, and community.

Predeceased by his parents, brothers Cecil, Frank, and Denver and sisters Willie, Mable, and Audrey. Also, by his daughter Margaret Owens, infant granddaughter Kimberly Critelli, grandson Lincoln Evans and former wife Gladys.

Survived by his life's treasures, sons, Charles (Connie) and Richard (Ruth); daughters, Linda Critelli (Anthony) and Rebecca Wehr (Robert); twelve grandchildren, James Owens III (Stephanie), Christine Owens Hare (Laurence), Anthony Critelli (Sandi), Nicholas Critelli (Jessica), Amanda Critelli Westphal (Zachary), Cameron Evans (Kim), Samuel Evans (Lynette), Sara Wehr, Jessica Wehr (Aron), Emily Wehr, Ricca Evans O'Connor (Michael), and Dillon Evans (Amanda). Twenty-six great-grandchildren, Ashlynn, Sydney, Justin, Thomas, Anderson, Jack, Olivia, Punky, Titan, Austin, Dalton, Kamryn, Jane, Makaylee, Garrison, William, Andersen, Campbell, Oliver, Matilda, Ella, Evan, Emerson, Elise, Haisley, and Waylon; many nieces and nephews whom he loved; cherished life-long friends, Mrs. Blanche Candler and Mrs. Patsy Davenport.

We are grateful for the love given to Dad by the staff in building 5 of Stonehenge Senior Living, particularly Nichole, Megan, Kelly, and Alex. Also Pruitt Hospice Service for their gentle care.

Services will be held at Cochran McDaniel Funeral Home, 41 Hunt Martin Street, Blairsville GA on Friday, August 9, 2024 at 2:30 pm. Visitation will begin at 1:30 p.m. Burial with full military honors, provided by North GA Honor Guard, will follow at Ebenezer Cemetery, Gum Log Road, Blairsville, GA. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Dad's memory to the charity of your choice.