Walter Edward Evans' Obituary
Former Channel 4 News Anchor, Walter Edward Evans, 86, died at his home July 24, 2018. His parents, Russell W. and Grace R. Evans, preceded Walter in death.A native Dallasite, Walter graduated from Woodrow Wilson HS where he would later be inducted into the WWHS Hall of Fame. In 1956 he graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Broadcast Journalism thus beginning a distinguished career that would take him to KSFA Radio in Nacogdoches, Austin’s KTBC Radio/TV, KTBB Radio in Tyler then returning to his beloved Dallas with WFAA Radio, KRLD Radio/TV which later became KDFW-TV. There he dedicated 28 years to anchoring the morning and noon newscasts. Walter reported the news with unquestioned integrity and was highly respected by colleagues for his sincere, steady presence on and off the air. Among his notable professional experiences include reporting on the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and watching live as the siege on Waco’s Branch Davidian Compound unfolded. Walter retired from KDFW in 1993.Walter was an active member of First United Methodist Church in Richardson, serving on numerous boards and committees during his 46-year membership. It was at FUMCR that he met his loving wife, Marilyn, and together they shared their joy for Christian service through the Walk to Emmaus, Stephen Ministry, and Kairos Prison Ministry, and other church activities. Walter also served as Assistant Chaplain at Medical City Plano and volunteered at Network of Community Ministries in Richardson.Walter loved music. He sang bass in FUMCR’s choir for over 40 years, and while in college sang in a barbershop quartet. Walter was an accomplished pianist and enjoyed accompanying for family sing-a-longs. Before joining FUMCR, Walter played the organ for Spring Valley Methodist Church.Walter is survived by his devoted wife of 43 years, Marilyn. Other survivors includde son, David Evans (Mamie) of St. Petersburg, FL; daughter, Laura Ezell (David) of Greensboro, NC; and his loving stepdaughters, Susan Vandiver (Ellis) of Hamilton, and Joni Dodson (David) of Spring. Walter adored his 8 grandchildren, Sarah Grace Rumsey (Mitch) of Denver, CO; Brooks, Teddy and Taylor Ezell all of Greensboro, NC; Stephen Eppler of Katy, Kristen Hunter (Matt) of Hamilton; Robert Dodson of Minneapolis, MN, and Kenneth Dodson of Dallas. He also leaves behind 4 great grandchildren and 2 cats.A memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church in Richardson, Monday July 30th at 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to FUMCR’s Music Fund or Chapel Building Fund, or to Faith Presbyterian Hospice in Dallas.The family would like to thank the many kind, dedicated staff at Medical City Plano and San Remo Rehabilitation, giving special recognition to his Care Team from Faith Presbyterian Hospice.
What’s your fondest memory of Walter?
What’s a lesson you learned from Walter?
Share a story where Walter's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Walter you’ll never forget.
How did Walter make you smile?