Joan H. Evans
Joan H. Evans
1942 ~ 2024
On April 27, 2024, Joan H. Evans peacefully passed away with the love, dignity, and grace that defined her beautiful life.
Sandra Joan Hayes was born on May 14, 1942, in Fresno, California, she grew up with fond memories of her childhood on her grandparents’ farm in Kingsburg. Her education at Millikan HS showcased her sharp mind, especially in debate. Later, she pursued a degree in English at BYU where she met her eternal companion, Hugh L. Evans. The young couple were married for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake City Temple on May 24, 1962. Their enduring marriage of 61 years was a testament to their commitment and love.
As a devoted mother of seven, grandmother of 15, and great-grandmother of two, Joan poured her heart into creating a warm and loving home. From baking bread to sewing Halloween costumes, she embraced every moment of motherhood with joy. She supported every possible track meet, cross-country race, dance recital, school program, or any other possible event for her children, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Birthday Celebrations were always better when done at Grammie’s house!
Joan was a writer. She wrote stories about her childhood on the farm and her family’s history. But most of all, she wrote beautiful and personal poetry. Her love for literature and writing shone through her role as editor of various publications, including the Alpine News Line and the Evans Family Newsletter. In addition to being a voracious reader, she found great pleasure in attending her monthly Book Club gathering with the ladies of Alpine.
Music was another passion of Joan’s, and her time as a member of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir from 1980-2000 allowed her to share her voice and love of singing with audiences around the world. Her travels with the choir took her to over 25 different countries, but it was in New Zealand where she found a special connection.
Joan’s interest in her family history and genealogy was given to her by her beloved Grandmother. Joan’s decision to pass this gift to her oldest son ensured that the family’s heritage will continue to be cherished and preserved for future generations.
Beyond her family and personal pursuits, Joan was deeply committed to serving others. Whether through missionary work, volunteering at the Bishop’s Storehouse, or fulfilling various church callings, she lived a life dedicated to helping others and strengthening her community. One of her last responsibilities at church allowed her to be in the library each week, where children could visit, and she could say hello with a treat and a smile. This weekly service brought Joan tremendous joy in her final few years.
Friends and family meant the world to Joan! Her closest friends like Cathy L, Reta P, and Jane P, as well as the Alpine Ladies Book Club and the Ashford Ladies Lunch Bunch brought happiness to her on a continual basis. Her children David (Alicia), Amy (Bart), Carlie, Sandra (Mike Z), Mike (Emily), Deborah (Scott), and Dan (Stephanie), as well as her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the daily sunshine in her life.
Joan is survived by her brothers, Jim (Joanie) and Jeff Hayes, as well as her 7 children. She was preceded in death by her husband, Hugh, her sister, Judith, her parents, James & Janne, and her grandson, Lucas Hugh.
Joan H. Evans leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering faith in the gospel. Her memory will be cherished by all who knew her.
We love you, Mom!
The Evans Family wishes to thank the Ashford care staff, Utah Home Health & Hospice, and the Warenski Funeral Home for their love, compassion, and care of our mother, Joan. We also wish to give our sincere appreciation to Bishop Peterson and the Moyle Park Ward for their continued love and support for our family over the past 6 months. And, to all other friends, family, neighbors, caregivers too numerous to mention- from the bottoms of our hearts, we thank you!
Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 4, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. at the Temple View LDS Ward Chapel located at 676 Eagle View Drive, Alpine, Utah 84004. Friends and Family are invited to attend a viewing at the church on Friday evening, May 3, from 6:00-8:00 P.M. and again on Saturday morning from 9:00-10:30 A.M. prior to the funeral service. In honor of Joan, please wear her favorite color, blue (as little or as much as you choose) and hug those you love.