Jim Lee Evans

Jim Evans, 94, of Sylva, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at Haywood Regional Medical Center, following a brief illness. Born on November 15, 1930 in Sylva, he was the son of the late Charles and Thelma Tucker Evans. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his brother, Joe Tucker Evans; sister-in-law, Rebecca Spake Evans; and son-in-law, Ritch Debnam.

Growing up in Jackson County, he graduated from Sylva High School in 1948. Jim, then, began studies at Western Carolina College where he was a member of the Catamount Baseball Team. He completed his BS degree in Business Administration in 1955, after serving in the US Army during the Korean War.

Following his graduation, he began a career in banking, retiring in 1977, from First Union National Bank, to establish the Jim L. Evans Trucking Company that he owned and operated for the next 25 years. He enjoyed hauling freight and goods, long-distance across the United States, often taking family and friends along with him on his travels. Involving himself in his community at various points during his lifetime, Jim was a member of the Sylva Kiwanis Club, treasurer of the Sylva First United Methodist Church, and president of the Jackson County LIttle League Association. An avid sports fan and puzzle solver, he was, also, a talented amateur carpenter and mason. He found much enjoyment in building projects around his home and community.

In 1957, Jim married Joyce Alda Nicholson, of Sylva and they celebrated 67 years of happiness together on August 11, 2024. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, his family was a priority to him and a source of much pride and happiness. His support, love, and guidance have been felt by all and he will be greatly missed.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by a daughter, Jennifer Evans Debnam; a son, Timothy Lee Evans; three granddaughters, Candace Debnam McDowell (Matt), Rachael Debnam-O’Dea (Matt Bodek), Summer Debnam Manns (Adam); and five great-grandchildren, James “Jim” O’Dea, Benjamin “Ben” McDowell, Isabelle McDowell, Walker Manns, and Henry “Hank” Bodek, as well as, many nephews and nieces.

At Jim’s request, no formal services are planned. There will be a family gathering to celebrate his life at a later date.

Memorials may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Memorial Giving 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105