Long-time NRB member Dr. Lois Evans, who co-founded The Urban Alternative with her husband, Dr. Tony Evans, went to be with the Lord on December 30, 2019.
“Just before the sun came up this morning, the love of my life, Lois Irene Evans, transitioned from earth and watched her first sunrise from heaven,” reported her husband in a post on Facebook.
“I had the privilege of holding her hand as she was lulled into eternity,” he added. “Our four children surrounded her as well. As she slipped away, we told her how much we love her, how proud we are of her, and how thankful we are for the life she has lived.
“We are what we are because of her,” he wrote.
Troy Miller, Interim CEO of NRB, expressed gratitude for Evans and her family, and for their longtime membership in and support of the association, in which Evans served in various capacities – most recently as a member of NRB’s Executive Committee.
“We are incredibly thankful for the life, service, and legacy of Lois Evans,” Miller said. “As she was to all those around her, Lois was a blessing to NRB and its members. She will be greatly missed, but we look forward to the glorious reunion we’ll one day have!”
Before co-founding The Urban Alternative, Evans was employed by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, the Grand Old Gospel Fellowship Ministry, and Dallas Federal Savings and Loan.
Since 1982, Evans served in numerous executive management positions with The Urban Alternative, including Executive Vice President from 1989 to 1995 and Senior Vice President until 2019. She was also Founder of the Pastors’ Wives Ministry and the First Lady Conference.
In addition, Evans served in the office of the Senior Pastor at Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship Church, as well as on the Boards of The Urban Alternative, NRB, NRBTV, and the Christian Management Association. She also served as the first President of the Global Pastors’ Wives Network and as a member of Leadership Southwest (sponsored by the Oak Cliff Chamber of Commerce).
Moreover, Evans was author of Seasons Of A Woman’s Life (Moody, 2000) and Stones of Remembrance: A Rock-Hard Faith for Rock-Hard Places (Moody, 2006) with Jane Rubietta. She also co-authored Our Love Is Here To Stay (Multnomah Publishing, 2004). In addition, Evans was a contributing author to Promises Promises: Understanding and Encouraging Your Husband (Vision House, 1996) and many magazine and newsletter articles. She also recorded two albums in 1983 and in 1989.
In 1995, Evans was honored with the Good Samaritan Award from Dallas Baptist University for outstanding Christian service to the community. In 1996, she received an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Eastern College, and in 2000 she received the Status of Women Award from Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. She also received The Woman of the Year in Ministry Award presented by the Women of Influence, Inc.
Evans was married for nearly 50 years to her favorite pastor/teacher and best friend, Dr. Tony Evans, Senior Pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship. She is survived by her four children – Chrystal, Priscilla, Anthony Jr., and Jonathan – five granddaughters, eight grandsons, and two great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the Evans family has asked for well-wishers to help in continuing the ministry to pastors’ wives that was dear to Evans’ heart. Contributions can be sent physically to The Urban Alternative (notating Pastors’ Wives Ministry in the memo of your check) or electronically at tonyevans.org/loisevans. Cards of encouragement can also be sent to Dr. Tony Evans or any member of the Evans family at: The Urban Alternative, PO Box 4000, Dallas, TX 75208.
The Evans family has also asked for prayers during this time.
