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MURFREESBORO – Edward Robert Evans, Jr., known affectionately as ER, passed away on August 19, 2023, at the age of 84. He was born on January 19, 1939 in Norfolk, Virginia and was the son of Edward Robert Evans, Sr. and Connie Wynns Evans. ER was preceded in death by his father, mother, and sister, Mary Lou Evans.

Mr. Evans was a devoted family man who always put his loved ones first. His beloved wife of 63 years, Sandra, and their two daughters, Deda Evans (friend, Doug Tutwiler) of Ahoskie and Stacy Rowland and her husband Mark of Charlotte, were the center of his world. He cherished his role as a grandfather to grandchildren, Cameron Williford (Courtney) of Greenville, Chip Williford (Holly) of Newport, Lily Rowland of UNC Chapel Hill, and Eli Rowland of Virginia Tech. ER’s brother, Ernest L. Evans and wife Austine of Ahoskie; nephew, Brad Evans (Liz); nieces, Tina Wood, and Blair James (Jason); and cousin, Margaret Dukes Pomeroy (Vann) of Newport Beach, CA, also survive him.

ER had a deep passion for farming and spent many fulfilling years tending to his beloved farms, including the farm he called home, Tall Cotton. He found joy in working the land and developed lifelong friendships through his Tall Cotton Hunting Preserve. An avid outdoorsman, ER enjoyed fishing and bird hunting. He took pleasure in organizing events and bringing hunters together for both hunting and socializing. He also delighted in passing down his knowledge and love for hunting and fishing to his grandchildren.

ER spent 50 years as a Shriner and was a member of the First Baptist Church of Ahoskie. He attended Campbell College and UNC Chapel Hill. ER was a very generous man, and being blessed by the Lord, he wanted to share those blessings with others. He dabbled in different ventures throughout his work career, from Coastal Concrete to Dare Concrete, Hampton Roads Equipment Company, and Sportsman’s Edge, but he was always happiest at Tall Cotton.

Services to celebrate ER’s life will be held during one of his favorite times of the year, harvest time. Details regarding the day and time for his Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be updated once decided upon.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, Attn: Office of Development, 2900 N. Rocky Point Dr., Tampa, FL 33607 or St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place • Memphis, TN 38105 or online by visiting tmcfunding.com/search fund, type- Ed Robert Evans.

The arrangements for the Evans family are being handled by Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service – Ahoskie Chapel. Online condolences can be directed to the family by visiting www.garrettsykesfs.com.

ER will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. His legacy as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend will forever be cherished in our hearts.