DENNIS PAUL EVANS
AUGUST 4, 1955 – DECEMBER 11, 2017
On behalf of Dennis, our family would like to say a little more than what an obituary might say. Dennis was misunderstood by many and we owe it to him to help people truly understand the wonderful and special soul he really was. Dennis had brain damage from a severe attack of Asthmatic Bronchitis at the age of 7 months. From a high fever and lack of oxygen, he developed a spot on his brain that impaired his motor, talking, and walking skills. This led to a seizure disorder. Dennis went to The Gateway School in Orlando for the handicap. While there he learned to read, write, and a small amount of math. In 1970, he left from the Gateway School so he could attend Apopka Memorial High School. Dennis graduated in 1974 from AMHS. In high school he was ‘Team Manager’ for the Blue Darter football team. This was his passion in high school. It wasn’t easy for Dennis, being taunted and teased by some, but he did what made him happy. Getting his drivers license was an important part of his life. This gave him a certain freedom. He worked in the plant nursery industry and even took a class in horticulture. He completed his course at Lake Sumter Community College. As the years progressed, Dennis started having more seizures. They would come on when he relaxed in his recliner or went to bed. The seizures eventually got worse, and he would have them during the daytime too. After working with Evans Nursery, Dennis worked with Winn Dixie and Publix. He was able to secure a job at a Publix within walking distance from his home. Dennis chose to ride his 3-wheel bike to work because he had given back his drivers license by this time. Dennis loved his job. Dennis was encouraged to stay in the work place for his own good in order to lead as normal a life as possible. This wasn’t always possible. The stress of a child living in a man’s body and taking the responsibility of an adult was taking its toll on Dennis. Just a few years ago, Dennis decided to stop working. It was discovered that more rest and less stress was better for his body. This was a hard decision but a necessary one. Dennis was not able to see the people like he did when working; he wasn’t able to cut up and laugh like he did while working. This was extremely hard on him. Dennis was a listener of Country Music. He loved to listen to Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton. Ray Stevens made him laugh. To smile, laugh, and cut up gave him much pleasure. He did not meet a stranger. If you had the true pleasure of knowing Dennis, you knew the smiles and laughter he gave away. We know he brought smiles to your face. Dennis was a member of First Baptist Church of Apopka. He was a Christian. He loved being a part of church and going to church. Dennis liked to listen to the Bible on tape. He was an usher at First Baptist and loved to greet the people. Dennis loved life and he really loved people. His greatest sorrow was not being understood and appreciated for being himself. No one deserves to feel this way, and it did sadden him. Dennis is free. He is free from any sadness he felt. Whatever burdened Dennis, it is no more. When the last white feather was put into his wings, Dennis flew to the heavens. God took Dennis to His home. Dennis is safe in the hands of Jesus. The songs you hear today have special meaning to us (the family). ‘Somebody Ought to Testify’ was a favorite of Dennis’ and felt appropriate to include in his service. Dennis, we know you’re dancing in the sky, and we know you’re singing in the angel’s choir. We know the angels know what they have (you). It’s got to be a little nicer in heaven since you arrived.
You will be missed. You will always be loved. You’ll never be forgotten. Rest in Peace Dennis.
Service
Visitation
First United Methodist Church Apopka
201 South Park Avenue Apopka 32703
11:00:00 - 12:00:00
Funeral Service
First Baptist Church of Apopka
441 S Highland Avenue Apopka 32703
12:00:00
Carol and Randy says
Lisa Ramlal says
Barbara Mcleod says
Robert & Kim Barrett says
Ron says
Shirley Martin says
Vicky Garrett says
Expression of Sympathy says
A SENTIMENTAL THOUGHTS was ordered on December 13, 2017
Jasandra Solis says
Sending my condolences to you all. Dennis was such a loving funny soul. The times I saw him he was always making jokes. Prayers with you all during this tough time.
Pamela Yarbrough says
Expression of Sympathy says
A SPATHIPHYLLUM was sent on December 13, 2017
Praying that our heavenly Father will wrap you in His loving arms and comfort you in the way that only He can! May the Lord fill you with His Peace during this time of sorrow and loss! In His love, Robin & Jeanne Lovell
Bobby and Mae Hall says
Truly, truly sorry to hear the sad news about Dennis. Such a kind and caring person. People who have never had the pleasure of knowing someone like Dennis Evans have missed out on one of life treasures. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Nancy Nolle says
The Entire Nolle Family says
Nancy Nolle says
It feels like I have known Dennis and the entire Evans family for my entire life. I was fortunate to grow up with Carol who was one of my very best friends. Slumber parties, camp outs, horseback riding, swimming, and all the fun stuff we did back in the day. Dennis, Marsha and David as well as Mom and Pop Evans were all a big part of my life. I know Dennis will be missed, but in life he was so fortunate to have had one of the best families I have ever had the honor of knowing. Godspeed Dennis. Rest well my friend
Derek New says
Jean Barrett says
Dennis was a wonderful fun loving young man. He would. Always talk to me when we were in Publix. We really liked Dennis.
Ran&Wanda Hudson says
David Odom says
What a beautiful tribute to Dennis. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. I did not know Dennis but have spoken to him before. May he truly rest in eternal peace.
Amy Unger Orwick says
Expression of Sympathy says
A SHADES OF ELEGANCE was sent on December 13, 2017
Thinking of you all , with love Bruce and Denise Bedner and family
Patricia says
Patti Nolle Combee says
Danny and Jan says
Billy Garrett says
Ren Hall says
Earl and Flo Nelson says
Dennis was a dear and gentle soul. It was always a joyful meeting when we would see him at Publix. We were blessed by knowing him.
Expression of Sympathy says
An A GARDEN PATH was sent on December 14, 2017
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your lossour thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Danny & Susan Anderson
Glenda Shelley McCormack says
Paul and Evelyn Evans moved next door when Dennis was just an infant and I was a very small child. One of my happiest memories is rocking and cuddling him. He was such a sweet and happy baby with a special spirit that followed him always. The fact that he was misunderstood saddens me. But to know he is in the presence of God makes me so happy. Sing loud and clear Dennis. Prayers for his loved ones.
Marsha & Doug Wendt says
Caren Gant - says
I am deeply saddened at the news of Dennis’ passing. At one time he attended Word of Life Church, Apopka, where I got to know him for a while. Always ready with a smile and a hug, seeing Dennis at church was always a high point of the day for me. Everytime we saw each other, we would talk about whatever was on his mind at the time and he’d always ask how my day was . He was truly a darling man and anyone who took the time to get to know him appreciated his friendship.
Mary French says
Orlando fla says
A glorious day in heaven accepting another angel. No more pain and is now rejoicing with His new body. God bless the Evans family.
Ronald Davis says
debbie stockham aderholt says
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Evans, Marsha and family, Carol and family, and David and family,
God puts special people in your life that you truly don’t appreciate until you mature enough in God’s love to see His goodness. Dennis was my best friend’s big brother. He got to tell Carol and I what to do and even got to tattle on us (of course, it was warranted most of the time). His smile and caring heart and compassion was lost on those simple facts. When Sharon called a couple of weeks ago, I remembered Dennis in a completely different way. He was a true angel on earth. He fought the odds and proved Jesus the victor. His smile was the very best and he will be missed on earth, and truly welcomed in heaven. My deepest sympathy goes to the whole family and so does my sincere thanks for allowing me to grow up with your family. Dear Carol-I love you!
debbie aderholt says
Amen!
Debbie Stockham Aderholt and family says
Tammy Barnett says
May God give your family Peace and Comfort in this time of mourning and celebration of Dennis’s life. God has taken him to a better place where we will all meet again! I am always here to support your family in any way. God Speed Dennis!
Tammy Barnett says
Tiffany Mobley says
My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Evans family during this difficult time! Dennis always spoke to me and my kids and loved giving my boys a hard time (jokingly of course) every Sunday. He will be missed!
The Wilson Family says
The Wilsons says
Rest In Peace. May God hold you in his arms. Well miss your smile and kind spirit. Sending up prayers.
Donna Schwartz says
Bobby and Tenita Reid says
We are going to miss seeing Dennis around town. Rest in peace Dennis…you brought happiness, laughter, and fun to our lives. We can’t believe you are gone, but you are in the arms of love, and at peace. Prayers to his family. We are so sorry for your loss.
Mark & Donna Lee Hensel says
Steve and Sharen Hooks says
Paula Helms Ledford says
Robert and Linda Bixler says
Cathy Wilemon says
Cathy Wilemon says
I am so sorry for your loss. He was always a smiling face at church, always kidding around. He will be missed. May God bless you and give you the comfort you need at this time.
Janine Arrowsmith says
Dennis was always smiling and had a joy for life. He will be missed by all that knew him.