WILMINGTON — The Evans family are saddened to announce the passing of our one and only James Edward Evans, Sr. Also known as “The B.A.C.”
Jim passed away Saturday, August 15, 2024, in Wilmington.
He was born October 22, 1937, in Wilmington, NC to the late Marie Amelia Schnibben Evans and Edward Hassell Evans.
As a Wilmington native, he enjoyed the beauty and perks of the underdeveloped land in New Hanover County. He was a stalwart builder with a profound work ethic and respect for the native flora and fauna of the southeast coast. With permission, he and his buddies built the first “clubhouse” on the uninhabited Figure Eight Island. This was a place for the brotherhood to camp, swim, fish and share the “truth”. Jim built over 300 fine custom homes in the Wilmington area, including his own home on the waterway. This is where he raised his sons to have the same work ethic in life. Later, Jim was lucky enough to marry Jeannie, who was by his side until the very end. Jim and Jeannie were the jam to each other’s toast, the ultimate compliment to each other.
Spirited and sometimes salty, Jim remained loyal to his family and friends. He took great pride in exploring his German ancestry as far back as the 1700s. He built a memorial for his grandfather, the Wilmington Fire Chief, at the current fire station behind Hanover Center. Jim was a believer in Christ and member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. He quickly adapted to technology so he could watch his weekly sermon on YouTube. He was a member of the Seaside Club at Wrightsville Beach for many years.
Jim graduated from New Hanover High School Class of 1955 and attended N. Carolina State College and UNC – Wilmington. He served 4 years in the US Coast Guard and was the founder and General Contractor for JE Evans Construction in Wilmington, NC.
Survivors include his wife of 35 years, Jeannie B. Evans; son, James E. Evans and wife Tamara; son, Michael Dare Evans and wife Tiffany; stepdaughter, Lisa Morris Matthews; stepdaughter, Kathy Morris Martin and husband Donn and grandchildren, Libby and Trip Evans, Maddie and Lawson Evans, Christopher, Justin, and Carson Matthews and Greyson Martin.
The family wishes to thank Michelle Carpenter for her selfless care and devotion to Jim’s health, business, and day-to-day needs and Candace and Gary Cedarman for friendship and gracious use of their home. This beloved view of the waterway remains a deep part of Jim’s soul.
Also, Jim knew the value of a pets love so much that he was involved in the construction of the New Hanover County Humane society that is still in use today.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 31 at 6 p.m. at the home of Candace and Doug Cedarman 722 Arjean Dr. Wilmington, NC. We will celebrate Jim’s life on the dock while overlooking and toasting to the intracoastal waterway.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: New Hanover County Humane Society, Salvation Army of Wilmington or Tunnels to Towers.
Our land is a better place because of Jim. Through the sound of the waves and the aroma of the ocean breeze we are all reminded of your presence in our lives. Rest well.
