Gary Laine Evans

Gary Laine Evans passed away after a short illness on March 13, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on January 12, 1948, Gary lived a life marked by his dynamic personality, caring nature, and remarkable ability to make everyone around him laugh. If you knew him, you loved him.

He attended Allen School and Bradley Central High School before beginning his career at Magic Chef. He later dedicated himself to healthcare, first serving as an EMT and working at Bradley Memorial Hospital. For 42 years he was a beloved presence at Parkridge East Hospital, where he greeted every person he passed in the hallway. He served in multiple roles, including director of Materials Management, and retired as Facility Plant Operations Manager. Gary was also a veteran who served in the Tennessee National Guard from 1967 to 1973. He was a longtime member of the Alhambra Shriners, Charleston Masonic Lodge #484 F&AM, the Opossum Shrine Club, the Red Fez, and a former member of the Rossville Lion’s Club.

A dedicated Christian, Gary prayed every morning and lived his faith through quiet service, letting his daily actions speak for him. He never met a stranger, whether in a grocery store checkout line or on the beach, and he had a special gift for supporting friends and family during difficult times. People cherished his infectious laughter that often brought him to tears, his smirky little grin, and the way his eyes disappeared when he smiled broadly. A true instigator who loved a good practical joke, he expressed his love through humor, playful ribbing, and both small and grand gestures that made others feel genuinely valued.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Lola and Emery “Edd” Evans; grandparents, Charles and Martha Houlk, and Lloyd Sr. and Louisa Evans; and his sisters, Shirley Smith (Leonard) and Brenda Evans. He is survived by his loving wife, Teresa Evans; son, Barry Evans (Jennifer); brother, Jimmy Evans (Wanda); stepchildren, Brad Hufstetler (Sarah), Eric Hufstetler (Helen), and Katie Creighton (Mark); and his beloved granddaughter, Brenley Evans. He will also be deeply missed by his niece (“daughter”), Megan Antuna (AJ); nephew, Stacy Smith; nieces, nephews, and cousins including Candy Lawson, Alex Lawson (Ashley), Andrew Lawson (Jennae), Jaxson Antuna, and Lola Antuna; and his extended step-family, Joel Leigh Jr., Joy Holland (Mark), Joel Leigh III, Joel Leigh IV, Leigha Hooks (Justin), Chase Holland (Savannah), Kayden, and Emmett. His quick wit, brilliant spirit, and open ear will be remembered by so many.