Arlee Evans, 99, of Granite Shoals died Dec. 16, 2015

Arlee “Pop” Evans, 99, of Granite Shoals, Texas, went home to be with the Lord on Dec. 16, 2015. Pop was born in Tellico Plains, Tennessee, on May 27, 1916, to Isaac and Lillie. He was the youngest of eight children.

Pop married Eva Thomas in 1938 and had six children: Sharleen, Joanne, Lee, Patricia, Richard and Jeannie. He and Eva also had the privilege of parenting many foster children.

Pop moved his family from Tennessee to California in 1944. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. After his children were raised, Pop moved back to Tennessee. After Eva passed away, Pop again moved to California and married Christine Kniff. Pop and Chris moved to Texas in 1993.

Pop was a gentle spirit who loved everyone. He had many careers in his 99 years, his last being a greeter at Walmart in Marble Falls. He retired at the age of 90. Pop was also actively involved in his church, First Baptist Church in Granite Shoals.

Arlee “Pop” Evans is survived by Joanne Johnson of Madisonville, Tennessee; Lee Evans of Granite Shoals; Richard Evans of Sydney, Australia; 18 grandchildren; many great- and great-great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews; and many loved ones.

A service is Dec. 22 in Tellico Plains, Tennessee, with Myers Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. A memorial service will be held in mid-January at First Baptist Church of Granite Shoals. Call (830) 598-5214 for more information.

Pop’s favorite scripture was John 3:16.