Jeffrey Evans

Dr. Jeffrey L. Evans of Priceville, Alabama, died on May 11, 2014. He was born on January 14, 1976, and grew up in Beebe, Arkansas. He was a loving husband and a dedicated professor of engineering at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. He was honored with numerous awards and recognitions, one highlight of his professional life being the prestigious National Science Foundation CAREER award. He was also just recently awarded tenure and promoted to Associate Professor.
In addition to a challenging and successful career, Jeff was well-rounded in all areas of his life. He was a talented ballroom dancer working toward his first competition with his wife. He enjoyed restoring his historic home and running his mini farm of animals. He had a lifelong love of sports, playing basketball and tennis. A prodigious traveler, Jeff had circled the globe to over 15 countries on five continents for both business and pleasure. He also served as a deacon in his church.
He was preceded in death by his father, Sonny Evans; grandparents Luther and Rose Talbert; and grandfather Austin Evans.
He is survived by his wife of thirteen years, Sarah Evans; mother, Fay Evans; one brother, Allen Evans (Lisa); and grandmother, Pearlee Evans. He also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. In addition to family, he will be missed by a multitude of students and colleagues who loved and respected him.
Jeff graduated Beebe High School in 1994 as valedictorian. He studied at various institutions, ultimately earning his Ph.D. in engineering from the University of Arkansas in 2008. He also completed certification as a Professional Engineer.
He was proud to see the first PhD student he advised complete her course of study just two days before his death.
The family will receive visitors from 6:00-8:00 pm Wednesday at Westbrook Funeral Home, Beebe. The funeral service will be 2:00 pm Thursday, May 15, 2014, at Beebe First Church of the Nazarene, with burial in Meadowbrook Memorial Gardens. For those who would like give in memoriam, donations may be sent to the charitable organization Jeff supported with his own time, finances, energy, and heart, The Philadelphia Church of God, PO Box 3700, Edmond, OK 73083. Arrangements by Westbrook, a Smith Family Funeral Home.