Reverend Okie Evans

Reverend Okie Evans, 81, of Columbus, Ohio went home to be with the Lord on February 20, 2025.

Born on March 3, 1943, in Genny's Creek West Virginia, Okie spent his life being a devoted family man who held his loved ones dear. His legacy is one of unwavering love, compassion, and dedication to his family. As a husband, father, grandfather, friend and mentor, he inspired all who had the privilege of knowing him with his kindness, humility, and genuine care for others.

A passionate preacher, Reverend Okie Evans devoted much of his life to spreading faith and uplifting his community. His sermons, filled with wisdom and grace, left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. His love for God and people was evident in everything he did, and his words brought comfort and encouragement to countless individuals over the years.

In addition to his faith, Okie had a deep love for music. Whether it was playing the piano which he is very well known for, or singing old gospel songs, music was his way of connecting with others and expressing joy. His melodies echoed the love he had for life, and his musical talent was a gift he eagerly shared with anyone who was willing to listen.

Okie leaves behind a family that will forever cherish his memory.

Okie is survived by his beloved bride, Ruth Ann Evans; sons Aaron Sean (Jacqueline) Evans, Todd (Amy) Evans, and Frank (Teresa) Karshner; grandchildren Kileah (Tyler) May, Austin (Robi) Evans, and Dillon Evans; great-grandchildren Karson Kerr-Evans, Michael Evans, Haisley May, and Maverick Evans; and his siblings Oretha (George) Bailey, Wilburn (Lori) Evans, Beth (Richard) Farley, Joyce Jude.

Okie is preceded in death by his grandson, Nathanael Evans; his parents, Wilburn and Genevieve Evans; siblings Oral Evans, Ulysses Evans, Marybelle Evans, Leona Spaulding, and Mavis Mattenklott; brother-in-laws Chuck Jude and Robert Adkins.

Friends may call on Friday, February 28, 2025, from 5:00 - 7:00 PM at Gompf Funeral Service 440 Center Street, Cardington, Ohio and on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Gompf Funeral Service from 9:00 -10:00 AM until the start of the funeral service at 10:00 AM where family and friends will gather to honor the man who touched so many lives. Following the service, burial will take place in the Glendale Union Cemetery.

The family would like to say a special thank you to Shawna Stewart for taking care of the funeral dinner.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Gompf Funeral Service, 440 Center Street, Cardington, Ohio 43315.

He will be deeply missed but always remembered. May his memory continue to inspire those who loved him.

Psalm 23:1-6 "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."

Gompf Funeral Service of Cardington is honored to have been chosen to assist the Evans family with Okie's final wishes and condolences may be expressed at www.gompffh.com.