It is with great sorrow that we [the family] announce the unexpected passing of our sister, Joan Marie Evans, on June 3, 2023. Her shining personality left us too soon but we will remember her with love and friendship, grateful for the time we had together. Affectionately known as “Joanie” by many, she was a God-fearing woman who loved life. She was born in Massillon, Ohio on December 29, 1952. Joan currently resided in Akron, Ohio where she lived for many years. Joan is a 1971 graduate of Central Catholic High School (Canton, Ohio) and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Malone College. At the time of her death, she was employed by Spectrum (Charter Communications).

Always actively involved in her community, for several years Joan sang in the Master Singers Chorale of Northeast Ohio and was a 49-year member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. from which she received the Midwest Region 2017 Delta D.E.A.R of the Year award. As a pastime, she enjoyed sports, with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Dallas Mavericks being among her favorite teams. Joan loved to laugh, enjoyed visiting new restaurants, was an avid bridge player, and was well-loved by her many friends.

A true music fan, in the early 70s Joan worked in the entertainment business with the O’Jays as a part of their production company, PLDK, with the “The Sounds of Cleveland”. She most recently worked tirelessly with the Massillon Museum which showcased the award-winning “Missing History of Massillon: Unheard African American Stories” which included her father, Louie E. Evans (dubbed “Mr. Urban League” by the city of Massillon), and her sister, Beverly E. Smith, who is a known community activist and a Past National President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Joan is survived by her two sisters: Michele Evans (Reno, NV) and Beverly (Stephen) Smith (Marietta, GA.). She also leaves a nephew, Brian (Rashan) Smith of Mableton, GA); niece Stacy (Jason) Frazier of Chicago, Ill.; five great nieces and nephews; and a host of cousins. Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Louie and Willa Evans of Massillon, Ohio.

The Delta Sigma Theta Omega will honor their sister, Joan Marie Evans, with a memorial service on Saturday, September 30, 2023 at 1:30 pm (EST) immediately followed by a repast with light refreshments served.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the American Lung Association in the name of Joan M. Evans.