Evelyn F. Deans was born on November 21, 1932, to the union of Culberson Walker and Zelma Jones in Rowlett, Texas. She was one of nine children and was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, her beloved husband, William B. Deans Sr. and her daughter, Evelyn Taylor.

Evelyn received her early education in Garland, Texas, and attended Crane Jr High (Chicago, IL) and Booker T. Washington High School in Dallas, Texas. As a young woman, she briefly lived in Chicago before returning to Texas, where she would build a life rooted in faith, family, and service. Evelyn was employed by Texas Instruments, where she eventually retired from her position as an assembly line worker.

In 1952, Evelyn married the love of her life, William B. Deans Sr. Together they shared a loving marriage and were blessed with four children, John Richard (son), Bevelyn and Evelyn (twin daughters) and William Boyd. (son). Their home was built on faith, devotion, and the importance of family.

A lifelong servant of God, Mother Evelyn Deans was one of the longest-serving and final charter members of the church founded by her father in 1929, Lucy Hughes A.M.E. church, now St. Luke A.M.E. Under Pastor K.P. Harvey, she was the first Sunday School secretary.

For more than 35 years, she served as President of the Stewardess Board, leading with grace and humility. In 2003, she was consecrated as a Deaconess under the leadership of Bishop Mckinley Young and Reverend Charles Franklin. She continued serving as President of the Deaconess Board until her passing.

Having grown up in the church, she faithfully served in nearly every ministry and leadership position available except ushering. Her dedication, wisdom, and unwavering commitment left an enduring impact on the congregation and community.

Evelyn was a pianist, loved gospel music and found great joy in songs that glorified God and uplifted the spirit. Her life reflected the faith she professed, and her favorite scripture was:

“And let us not be weary in well doing for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”— Galatians 6:9

Evelyn lived a full and blessed life. She often reminded her family not to grieve excessively but to rejoice in God's goodness. She believed that God had supplied all her needs and blessed her beyond measure.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory her children: John R. Walker, Bevelyn Alexander Brown (Michael) and William Deans, Jr.

She also leaves a legacy of love through her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, church family, and countless friends whose lives she touched.

Her strength, love, faith, and example will remain forever in our hearts.

Please wear white for the homegoing celebration.