Neil C. Evans, Sr.

Neil C. Evans, Sr., 84, died Thursday, June 19, 2008 in Lexington. Neil was born August 21, 1923 in Arcadia, NC to the late Ellard and Ida Jones Evans. He grew up surrounded by the relatives that populated the small community. He received a football scholarship to attend Appalachian State Teachers College (now Appalachian State University) where he was coached by his cousin, Kidd Brewer. An injury ended Neil's college football career, but in the meantime, he had met the love of his life, Betsy Nooe Harris. They married in August 1942. Soon after getting married, Neil joined the U.S. Army where he served in the 13th Airborne Division after graduation from jump school. Neil was assigned to flying gliders. He served in several different countries in Europe as a member of the 1st Allied Airborne division. During his service in Europe he was recruited to be a liaison with the French Underground. After V-E Day, he returned to the U.S. and was transferred to the 82nd Airborne Division in anticipation of the invasion of Japan. After V-J Day, he was discharged in 1946, and returned to Lexington, NC. After discharge from the Army, Neil was a traveling salesman and later worked at Grimes Mill in Lexington. Later he worked at Siceloff Manufacturing Company until it closed in the late 1960s. At the time of his retirement, Neil worked for Byrd Motor Lines. He enjoyed people, and never forgot those with whom he had worked over the years. He was a member of the American Legion as well as an associate member Of the NC Law Enforcement Officers Association since June 19, 1968. Neil is survived by his beloved wife of almost 66 years, Betsy; son Neil C. Evans, Jr. and his wife Anne P. Evans of Bennett, NC; son Dr. James H. (Jim) Evans and wife Melinda I. Evans of Mocksville, NC; and daughter Elizabeth A.(Libby) Evans of Chapel Hill, NC. Also surviving are grandchildren Amy Evans, Kelly Evans, Wesley Evans, Alex Evans and Jack Evans and great grandchildren Lila, Mikah and Lana. Neil leaves his family and friends with memories of his good humor, his strength and endurance and endless stories. In addition to his parents, preceding him in death were his brother Pierce Evans and Odell Evans, Simply put, he loved them. Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 PM Sunday, June 22, from the Mt. Olivet United Methodist Church, with a graveside service following in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church after the service. Memorial contributions in Neil's memory may be sent to Father Flanagan’s Boys Home, P.O. Box 6000, Boys Town, NE 68010 or the Mt. Olivet United Methodist Church, 1082 Community Road, Lexington NC 27295.