Obituary of Ray Alphonsa Evans

Ray Alphonsa Evans, affectionately known as "Big Money Grip," 62, of Jetersville, Virginia, passed away on December 17, 2024, surrounded by his loving wife, Terry, and youngest son, Justin. Born on March 30, 1962, to the late Everette and Lillian Evans, Ray was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle and well-known member of his community.

Ray attended Amelia County Public Schools where he met his high school sweetheart Terry. They shared an incredible 43 years together, with 30 of those years spent as husband and wife. Their love story is one of true devotion, commitment, and partnership. Through the ups and downs of life, Ray and Terry stood together, supporting each other and building a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure.

Ray worked as a skilled brick mason and construction worker for over  30 years. He  was blessed to have had the opportunity  to work alongside his sons, sharing his  knowledge  and skills  with them.  Watching  them grow from  boys  to men  and  teaching  them  the  value of hard  work and  the importance of  family was a great accomplishment.

As a provider and protector, Ray always put the needs of his family first. He worked hard to ensure that they were well taken care of, and his love and devotion to them was unwavering. He had a special place in his heart for his grandchildren, who brought him immense joy and happiness. He loved spending time with them, spoiling them, and watching them grow. He was also a  loving and supportive  father to his  daughters, who adored him and cherished the time they spent together.

Ray's passions in life were numerous, and he loved nothing more than sharing them with others. An avid outdoorsman, he was one of the greatest rabbit dog hunters. He had a gift for training and handling his dogs, and his team was unbeatable in the field. With a keen eye for talent and a deep understanding of canine behavior, he coaxed the best out of his dogs, and they rewarded him with hunt after successful hunt. His dogs were an extension of himself, and together they formed an unstoppable team. He was the “KING” of the rabbit hunt. Deer hunting, horseback riding and fishing was amongst the many activities he took pride in. Ray was famous for cooking a big breakfast anytime he had visitors and the tastiest fish at any event.  You could catch  him starting a  fire at any  given time for  any given  reason.  But more  than anything,  Ray loved teaching  others and passing on his knowledge and skills to the next generation.

 As Ray's health began to decline in 2021 Terry selflessly took on the role of his caretaker, dedicating herself to his care and comfort. Her love, devotion, and tireless efforts ensured that Ray's final days were filled with dignity, peace,  and joy.  Ray was forever  grateful for Terry's  unwavering  support and love, and he cherished every moment they spent together.

Ray's family was his rock, and he was theirs. He will be deeply missed by all who  knew him, but his  legacy  will live on through the countless lives he touched.

Ray was  preceded  in death by  his sister,  Darlene Evans,  and  brother, Andrew Evans.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 30 years, Terry Evans, and their four children: Ray (Kiyah), Ebony, LaQuisha, and Justin. He was also blessed with five grandchildren: Keonte, CorMari, Kylan, Kenzley, and Ziyah. In addition to his immediate family, Ray is survived by his brothers, Stumpy and Roy; sisters, Frances, Gloria, Dale, Talyan, and Nancy Branch (John); sisters-in-law, Toni Evans and Erica Roberts; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.