Mary Elizabeth Evans was born September 23, 1917, at her parent’s home near Independence in Custer County, OK. She was the fourth of five children of Harry W. and Mona C. Tharp. Elizabeth, age 99, passed away on December 9, 2016, in Enid, Oklahoma.
Graveside services only will be held on Tuesday, December 13, 2016, at 2:00 p.m. at the Custer City Masonic Cemetery near Custer City, OK, with Dr. R. Joe Wilson officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Ladusau-Evan Funeral Home, where Elizabeth can be viewed prior to the graveside service.
Elizabeth was united in marriage with Edward F. “Bud” Evans on September 26, 1936, at the home of her parents near Independence. Upon her marriage to Edward she joined the First Christian Church in Custer, where she became the church organist and held that position for more than fifty years. Elizabeth learned to play the piano using an Etude Correspondence Course purchased by her Mother with egg money she saved to pay for the piano studies. Elizabeth’s mother also taught her exceptional sewing skills. These skills were rewarded with many Blue and Grand Champion ribbons she received at the Custer County Fair and Oklahoma State Fair.
Later during the 1960’s, using her talented sewing skills, Elizabeth established Evans Custom Draperies at their farm home near Custer, Oklahoma. Her long-time assistant was her sister-in-law, Marie Tharp, now deceased. Edward along with his farm operations, assisted in the delivery and installation of the draperies to customers throughout Western Oklahoma. Following Edward’s death on July 16, 2007, Elizabeth moved to Enid, living with her daughter Mary Ann Potter, for one year before moving into assisted living apartments where she resided until her death.
Survivors include her two daughters, Mary Ann Potter of Enid, Oklahoma and Margaret Mae Hamlin of Custer City, Oklahoma; and three sons, Edward Stanley Evans of Lahoma, Oklahoma, Charles L. Evans and wife Donna of Enid, Oklahoma, and Harold James Evans and wife Linda of Perkins, Oklahoma. She is also survived by thirteen grandchildren, twenty-two great grandchildren, and several great-great grandchildren.
Elizabeth was preceded in death by her parents and four brothers; Herbert, Russell, Marshall and Coval Tharp; son-in-law, Merle G. Potter; and daughter-in-law, Nelta F. Evans.
The family suggests that memorial contributions in Elizabeth’s honor may be made to the Custer City first Christian Church Youth Group with Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home serving as custodians of the funds.
Condolences may be made online at www.ladusauevans.com .
Immediately following the graveside service, visitation the family will be at the First Christian Church.
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