Verlin Evans

Verlin Dale Evans, a man of unwavering kindness and gentle strength, died unexpectedly on July 19, 2024. Born on March 4, 1942, in Melrose, IL. Verlin's 82 years were a testament to the power of hard work, devotion, and compassion. Verlin's early life on the family farm in Melrose was spent milking cows and baling hay alongside his ten siblings. Despite the loss of his father at the age of eleven, Verlin's spirit remained unbroken. Following three years at Marshall High School, he moved in with his sister & brother-in-law (Vivian & Elbert Miller), working on their farm while attending Hutsonville High School, where he graduated in 1960.

Verlin's thirst for knowledge led him to Southern Illinois University, but financial constraints cut his studies short. Nevertheless, he found his path through service, joining his five brothers in the military. He served in the U.S. Army as an MP, stationed in Germany from 1963 to 1965. Upon returning home, Verlin married Sharon Maddox, and this union blessed him with two children, Angela and Aaron. His professional journey began as a supervisor for CIPS in Hutsonville and continued as a chief operator and emergency response team member at Marathon Refinery for 22 years before retiring in 1999. Yet, even in retirement, Verlin's hands remained busy as he assisted his nephew, Stanley Miller, on his farm, a role he embraced with the same pride and joy as he did in his youth.

Verlin's dedication to his work was matched by his commitment to his family. He married Linda (Guyer) Huber on June 10, 1978, and in so doing, he also brought her sons, Kent and Scott, into his caring fold. Together, they built not just a home, but a foundation for a life filled with love and mutual support. In fact, when she was studying to become a nurse, Verlin took the time to help her study between working a turnaround at the refinery and building the house they would call "home" for decades, a standing symbol of his determination and talent. A natural handyman and innovative problem-solver, he could fix anything. An avid nature lover, Verlin found joy in the simplicity of bird watching, the tranquility of fishing and mushroom hunting, and, as a pilot, the adventure of flying. His love for classic country music, Westerns, and Illini sports was only matched by his passion for ice cream, a sweet treat he relished with childlike delight.

Verlin's commitment to his community was evident in his service as a volunteer firefighter, his oversight of Plymouth Cemetery, and his involvement with the West Union American Legion Post #1130 and Olive Branch Baptist Church. Together with his wife Linda, they engaged in local mission work. His generosity knew no bounds, and his time was always given freely to others with little thought of self. The primary beneficiaries of the precious gift of his time were his beloved family, especially his grandchildren, who were each the apple of his eye. Verlin and Linda made countless memories together by exploring all 50 states, and they even ventured on a river cruise through Europe just last year. His children remember his consistent, gentle demeanor, his wise instruction, and his ever-readiness to lend a caring ear. As we remember Verlin, we will undoubtedly recall his own words, "I've been blessed." Indeed, we have been blessed to have been loved by him because he gave us just a taste of the life-giving love of Jesus.

So, while we grieve the loss of this devoted husband, dad, doting grandfather, caring brother, and kind friend and neighbor, we can also rejoice, because Verlin Evans was, above all, a devout Christian. He has kept the faith; he has finished the race. By the grace of God, we will see him again in glory!

His legacy lives on in the hearts of his family: his wife of 46 years, Linda Evans (Hutsonville, IL); his children & their spouses, Angela & Shannon Johnston (Louisville, KY), Kent & Cathie Huber (Indianapolis, IN), and Scott Huber (Zionsville, IN); his grandchildren, Jack Huber, Sydney Huber, Dawson Dale Huber, Morgan Huber, Drake Johnston, and Lindsey & Blake Hensley (and their daughter, Aurora Rose "Rory" Hensley); his siblings, Marilyn Wells (West York, IL), Shirley Dawson (Marshall, IL), Burton & Nancy Evans (Palestine, IL), and Max & Connie Evans (Robinson, IL); his in-laws, Sharon & Steve Thompson and Debby Mitchell; his goddaughter, Beth Hewing; as well as several nieces and nephews, including his special nephew, Stanley & wife Mindy Miller. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry & Zola (Nidey) Evans; his son, Aaron; and his siblings, Wayne Evans, Sylvia Stephens, Vivian Miller, Warren Evans, Erma Lynn Angel, and Fred "Leroy" Evans.

A time of visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 23rd at the Prust-Hosch Funeral Home in West Union, IL. Another hour of visitation will precede the funeral service, which will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 24th at the funeral home with Bro. Randy Nave officiating. During the service, family and friends will be given the opportunity to share memories and to give expression to the fullness of Verlin's life. Memorial contributions may be made to the "Lawrence Crawford Association for Exceptional Citizens", with envelopes available at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Plymouth Cemetery, where military honors will be conducted by the West Union American Legion Post #1130.