Elaine Killebrew Evans

Elaine Killebrew Evans died Saturday afternoon, February 9, 2008 in St. Joseph’s Hospital, Atlanta, from lung and heart failure. Born on March 16, 1924 in Anniston, Alabama, Elaine was the daughter of James and Onzelle Killebrew. Elaine attended public schools in Anniston where, like all 4 of her siblings, she was a member of the Honor Society. Immediately following her graduation from Vanderbilt University in 1945, she married Thomas Golladay Evans, whom she had met as a freshman. They moved to the New York City metropolitan area and raised their three daughters primarily in Glen Rock, NJ where Elaine participated in numerous community affairs, from Girl Scouts to teaching Sunday school, making important contributions to home and community while her husband traveled frequently on international business. Elaine earned her Masters in Library Science from Rutgers University in 1967, graduating first in her class and thoroughly enjoyed her profession as a reference librarian. Elaine and Tom lived in Brussels, Belgium from 1972 to 1975. They both traveled extensively throughout the world. For many years, Elaine especially loved sharing her enthusiasm for learning through travel with her extended family. Elaine and Tom lived in Pittsburgh, PA from 1975 to 1984 and retired to Alpharetta, GA in 1984. Elaine became an avid genealogist, using her training as a librarian to trace her family’s histories with in-depth results going back hundreds of years. She is deeply appreciated as both a family historian and family anchor. In her gentle, caring way, she kept up vibrant relationships with her family, extended family and friends, creating much joy in bringing them together. Elaine is survived by her husband, Thomas Golladay Evans, her 3 daughters, Susan Wille of Grass Valley, CA, Sally Schenk of Stamford, CT, and Vivian Duncan of Whitmore, CA. She had 4 grandchildren: Andrea Bitar of La Jolla, CA, Laura Hoffman of Los Angeles, Adam and Starkie Schenk of Stamford and 2 great-granddaughters: Nadia and Nora Bitar. She is survived by one sister, Vivan Bolen and 2 brothers, Alfred Killebrew and James Killebrew. Her sister Mildred Worsham died in 1998. Her cherished nieces and nephews were an important part of her life. Come help us celebrate Elaine’s joyful life at funeral services on Thursday, February 14th, at 2 PM at Northside Chapel Funeral Directors. Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday from 4:30 to 7:30 PM. If desired, memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice.

Elaine Killebrew Evans

March 15, 1924 - February 8, 2008