Ronald Vernon Evans

WESTWOOD - Dr. Ronald Vernon Evans (Jan. O3, 1936-July 18, 2020), born in Westwood New Jersey, served in the U. S. Army during the Korean conflict. Following a stint teaching for the DOD in Puerto Rico, Ron graduated from Seton Hall University and later from Florida State University where he earned his PHD. Ron belonged to the inaugural faculty of The University of West Florida in Pensacola where he served on the Faculty of English and Foreign Languages and later served as Dean of Arts and Sciences. During his 40 years in academe, which included extensive travel abroad, he published scholarly books and articles as well as collections of short stories and poems. Upon retirement from UWF, he became Director of Mediation Services for the First Judicial Circuit of Florida. After moving to Memphis in 2007, he became active on the Parish Council of St. Patrick Catholic Church. As one St. Patrick friend attests Ron always provided “welcoming and joy-filled hospitality.” His generosity, ready wit, and charm are already sorely missed.

Ron is survived by his wife Mary (nee Lowe): his children, Ronald Vernon, Jr., Gregory Paul, Rachel Valerie Evers: grandchildren, Ashley Salome (Joseph), Winston (Colleen), Jessica Berry (Grayson), Daniel (Shaza), Veronica, and Melanie; and Jacob Mitchell: great grandchildren Ridley; Slade and Pennington Berry; Olive Salome; and Dean. Step children Stan, Steve, and Andrea Golanka; step grandchildren Tim Villabona; Hannah and Molly Golanka.

A Memorial Service will be conducted on Saturday, July 25th at St. Patrick Church at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers please make a contribution to the Humane Society.