Ronnie Edward Evans

What a celebration in heaven took place on December 14th as Ronnie Edward Evans, 73, of Old Fort, North Carolina, peacefully left this life on earth and entered the gates of heaven rejoicing!

Ron was born in McDowell County on June 28, 1949 to devoted parents, Lucy Kelly Evans and the late Calvin Evans both of Old Fort, North Carolina. Ron was an honored and decorated Vietnam Veteran of the United States Marine Corps.

Ron’s faith in Jesus was the cornerstone of his life. God’s word was the anchor for his soul. He had a child-like passion for life, especially for finding beauty in God’s creation. He loved spending time outdoors fishing, hiking and creating incredible woodwork for his family and friends.

Ron’s joy was contagious - he loved a good joke and found great delight in making others laugh. This was especially true throughout his public service career as a Building Code Plans Examiner for the City of Asheville. He was well-respected and affectionately known as the “Code Man.” After retirement, Ron worked part-time with the City of Marion as a Building Inspector and also as a private code consultant for some of the most prominent architects in western North Carolina.

Ron’s family was precious to him. He was a devoted and servant-hearted husband to his wife “the greatest catch of his life”, Karen Meyer Evans of 52 years. He was an amazing father; strong, tender and brave to his three children Jessica Evans (Eric) Gravelle, Marissa Evans (Derrick) Rehn and Matt (Courtney) Evans. Affectionately known as “G-Pa”, he leaves a lasting legacy to his two grandsons, Andrew and Caden Gravelle. He is also survived by his “number one” sister, Loretta Brown.

During his short 4 week battle with cancer, Ron still loved, cared for and shepherded his family and others towards Jesus. He was faithful to the very end and was a living testimony to the goodness and glory of God amidst the deepest suffering. He truly lived out his favorite scripture found in 2 Timothy 4:7, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” Well done, our precious Ron.

A public service to celebrate Ron’s life and legacy will be held on Saturday, January 28th at Living Waters Tabernacle at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Eric Gravelle officiating.