Annis Evans, age 97, of Arley, Alabama, met her savior face-to-face on December 24, 2024 in Jasper, Alabama. She lived a life full of fun, creativity, service, and faith.
Annis dedicated 28 years of her life to serving the people of Winston County on the Board of Registrars. She often recalled with fondness how she was appointed to her position by both Democrats and Republicans alike, a testament to her respected character and dedication to her work.
Her love for the Gospel was evident in her role as a Sunday School teacher at Arley First Baptist Church, a position she faithfully held for 70 years. Annis inspired countless people with her favorite saying: “You’re all teachers today,” encouraging each person to participate and contribute for the benefit of the whole class.
Annis was also a gifted artist, finding joy and relaxation in painting scenic landscapes, buildings, and beautiful floral arrangements in oil and watercolor. She shared her passion for art generously, opening her basement studio to numerous art students. With patience and encouragement, she taught them her techniques, passing on her love for creativity.
A lover of the performing arts, Annis thrived on the stage. While others may shy away from the spotlight, she was completely at home there. She acted in a number of plays and theatrical productions at Looney’s Tavern Amphitheater, a place where she and her husband found great enjoyment working together. Her acting talents extended beyond the stage, as she appeared in a country music video and two television commercials.
Annis also found fulfillment in writing, directing, and acting in short plays, where she showcased her gift for storytelling. The storylines of her plays often varied, but they always centered around the themes of love for one another and the Gospel, reflecting the deep faith that guided her life.
Her time at home with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren was filled with joy, laughter, and whimsical storytelling. She often entertained them with tales of fictional characters like Jackie Rabbit and Billy Squirrel, who became beloved figures in her family’s lore. Annis made birthdays extra special with handwritten poems that she created for each family member, celebrating their unique qualities and showing her love in a personal and meaningful way.
She is survived by her husband of 77 years, V.C., son Michael Evans, daughter Rebecca (Steven) McCay, grandchildren Jennifer (Jared) Green, Andrew (Kristen) McCay, Amy (Michael) Praytor, Bethany (Jonathan) Jordan, Juliana (Tim) Horsley, and 12 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Luther and Alice Elmore, 9 siblings, and a grandson, Christopher Evans.
A service to celebrate Annis’s life will be held at Collins-Burke Funeral Home, Jasper, Alabama on December 31, 2024 with visitation from 1:00 to 2:30 and service to immediately follow. The service will be officiated by Rev. Don Graham and Rev. Mike Goforth.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Looney’s Amphitheater Complex and Cultural Center, in care of the Winston County Arts Council, Double Springs, Alabama or the Baptist Health Foundation’s Pastoral Care Ministry, Birmingham, Alabama.
