Janet Sue Evans

Janet Sue Evans, aged 84, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2025, in Birmingham, Alabama. Born on February 5, 1941, Janet devoted her life to nurturing and educating young minds, spending 25 fruitful years teaching pre-kindergarten and kindergarten at Tarrant Elementary School. Her unwavering commitment to education was recognized when she was honored as Teacher of the Year, a testament to her dedication and impact. Janet's life was guided by her deep Christian faith, actively participating in the congregations of Central Church of Christ, Palisades Church of Christ, and Decatur Highway Church of Christ. She was known for her genuine, loving nature, often described as a Proverbs 31 woman, her life marked by virtue and kindness. Janet's smile and tender heart left a lasting impression on everyone she met, from her church family to her many friends. 

Beyond her professional and spiritual life, Janet had a vibrant array of hobbies. She was an enthusiastic painter, known affectionately by her clown nickname, Klum zee, and brought joy through her performances. Janet enjoyed playing dominoes with her friends at church and solving puzzles on her tablet, activities that reflected her playful spirit and sharp mind. Janet also loved going to the Smokey Mountains with her friends from Palisades Church of Christ.

Janet is survived by her devoted husband, Huel Evans; her beloved sons, Scott and Alan Evans (Jenni Evans); and cherished grandchildren, Taylor, Josh, Andrew, Davis, and Brock. She also leaves behind her great-nephew, Trace; great-nieces, Ella and Kennidi; and her sister-in-law, Joyce. Janet’s memory lives on in her many nieces and nephews—Katrinka, Christy, Ricky, Randy, Robby, Greg, Glenda, and Michael—each of whom she held dear.

Her legacy of love and mentorship continues to thrive through her family and the countless children she guided and nurtured throughout her life.

Janet was preceded in death by her parents, Olen and Susie Payne; her in-laws, David and Marie Evans; her brothers, Tommy, Jerry, and Richard Payne; and her brother-in-law, Bobby Evans, along with other treasured family members who have gone before her.

A service celebrating Janet’s life will be held at Trussville-Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home and Gardens, 1591 Gadsden Hwy, Birmingham, AL 35235.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the local Food Bank or Child Haven in her memory, to honor her lifelong dedication to caring for those in need