Lester James Evans Jr., 85, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026. He was born on September 15, 1940, in East Texas, with family roots in Lovelady, Texas, to the late Elbert J. Simmons and the late Besse Mae Foreman.

Lester was raised in Lovelady and later made his home in Houston, Texas, where he attended Carverdale High School. He was known for his strength, discipline, and quiet proud nature. A dedicated and hardworking man, he spent part of his career with A.B. Chance as a Welder and retired from Thomas & Bett after 30 years of dedicated service. He remained deeply committed to providing for and supporting his family. He found joy in traveling with loved ones, fishing in Onalaska, Texas and watching his Dallas Cowboys.

He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Hattie Scruggs Evans, and together they built a strong and loving family.

He was preceded in death by his children, Kathy Johnson and Fredrick Evans; his grandson, Dexter Demond Evans; daughter-in-law Nakia McBride Evans and brother Albert “Hamburger” Evans, several siblings.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 62 years, Hattie Scruggs Evans; his children, Donna Evans Motton (Lawrence), Lester Larmont Evans and Edward Johnson; 28 grandchildren and 66 great-grandchildren; his siblings, Pearl Murphy, Larry Evans, Thelma “Suga Mama” Evans, Velma “Aunt Chick” Evans, Mattie Evans and Frank Evans; sister-in-law Lillie Scruggs; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and devoted Dog and bestfriend Buster.

Lester will be remembered for his strength, his unwavering devotion to family, and the lasting legacy of love he leaves behind.