James Evans, affectionately known as Bear, was born on March 30, 1940. He was the fifth child of the late R.D. and Ethel Lee Evans. After a tragic accident, James passed away on November 18, 2023.

James was a man of short stature, but he had a big heart. He lived his life in Strong, Arkansas in the Ebenezer Community. He was employed for many years in the pulpwood business. He spent his free time, looking out for his children and family, recycling, gardening, and fishing.

James is preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Calandra Evans, his sisters Gussie Marie Greer, Dorothy Lee Williams, Irene Nell Williams, Eva C. Brown, and Doristene Williams, his brothers George D. Evans, Johnny Frank Evans, Tommy Lee Evans, Forton Evans and Thornton Evans,  and his long-time companion Patricia Williams.

He is survived by his sons James Evans Jr. and Duane Evans, his granddaughter TyVonna C. Goldsby, his bonus daughter Joyce R. Hall, his brother Daniel Evans, and numerous nieces, nephews, and longtime friends.