Donald Ray Evans' Obituary
Don and his twin sister Debbie grew up in Garland, Texas with his parents Windell and June. After graduating from South Garland High School in 1972, where he lettered in multiple sports, Don became a Longhorn at the University of Texas, graduating in 1976.
Working as a computer technician, Don enjoyed helping people solve their hardware problems. He travelled all over the Dallas area from site to site, and he often passed the time in traffic and driving while listening to The Ticket Sports Radio, a habit that his son now takes just as seriously.
Don wasn’t one to be cooped up in an office, so it’s only fitting that in 1986 he met Beth, a true traveler. They married in 1988 and moved into a home that was originally Don’s grandparents’, which remains the family home. In 1991 and 1993, Don and Beth welcomed their children Claire and Blake, respectively.
In his younger days, Don was an avid and respectable golfer. His golfing claim prior to marrying Beth, where he hit a double eagle on Hole 1 at Tenison in Dallas. Those who have played that course will know it was no easy feat. He was proud to be able to pass along an appreciation of the game that he learned from his father, Windell, to his son, Blake.
Don enjoyed following the Rangers, Cowboys and Mavericks and rarely missed watching a game. Later in life, he also diligently managed several fantasy teams. He loved listening to rock music of all generations, even going so far as to keep a list of music by his bed so he could ask Alexa to open his Spotify playlist to start the day. He enjoyed binge-watching shows and was determined to finish them even if they weren’t always that good. He also loved a good Hallmark or holiday movie and spent much time listening to audio books from the Dallas Public Library.
Don loved staying in touch with family and old friends, often relying on novel-length text messages - much to his daughter’s chagrin. His greatest joy was watching his kids grow up and become the remarkable people they are today. His two beautiful granddaughters brought new light and energy, and he loved being able to video call with them frequently. He was so proud of all of them, and he was able to visit with both kids and grandkids very shortly before his unexpected passing.
The last several years were unkind to Don’s body, and he struggled with mobility and getting around. Despite a considerable amount of pain, Don did his best to keep moving if only a lot slower than before. He rarely complained and never wanted to prevent anyone else from doing and experiencing life, as long as he got a nice recap afterwards.
His kind soul will be truly missed, even the version of him that got hangry. He was great son, brother, uncle, dad, grandfather, husband, and friend.
Donald Ray Evans, aged 72, died Sunday, Mach 8, 2026. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Windell and June Evans. He is survived by his wife Beth of 37 years, their two children Claire (Bryce) of Seattle and Blake (Megan) and granddaughters, Adeline and Eloise, of Phoenix, his sister Debbie (Dayton) Shermer, his uncle Jimmy Page and many, many nieces and nephews across the country. If you feel compelled, please in lieu of flowers consider making a donation to the Dallas Public Library– which provided Don lots of joy and entertainment throughout his life.
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