John Reaves Evans

John Reaves Evans, 89, of Carterville, passed away on July 27, 2025.

John was born on July 28, 1935, to Andrew Reaves and Nellie Mae Evans in Springfield, Illinois.

He is survived by his loving wife of sixty-nine years, Babs; children, Lori (Lance), John (Jose), Mike (Crystal), Mark (Bonnie) and Mary (Tim); grandchildren, Adam, Briana, Carly, Alex, Jacob Jesse, and Emily; great grandchildren, Dakota, Rhett, Harper, Ivy, Harvey, Oakley, and Nora; sisters, Elaine and Lynette.

John had a lifelong career as an educator beginning as a classroom teacher and culminating as a professor and Associate Dean within the College of Education, Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

John was a founding member of the Catholic Church of the Holy Spirit, Carterville, Illinois. He was a member of the Parish Council and the Knights of Columbus. John was also active in his community as a member of both the Carterville School District and Anne West Lindsey District Library boards. 

John enjoyed traveling, whether it be to Italy or to walk the beach at Sanibel Island.

The family would like to express their sincere thanks and gratitude to Reflections Memory Care and Hospice of Southern Illinois for their kindness and compassion.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Carterville, with Fr. Joseph Brown, S.J., officiating. 

Memorial contributions may be made in John’s memory to the Catholic Church of the Holy Spirit or Hospice of Southern Illinois.

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