Betty Joann Evans

Betty Joann Evans, 93, passed away Saturday, December 31, 2022. Graveside Service: 2 p.m. Thursday, January 5, 2023 at East Greenwood Cemetery, Weatherford. Memorials: In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the local animal shelter, women’s shelter, or a charity of your choice. Joann was born September 15, 1929 in Kansas City, Missouri to Carl Bailey and Cynthia Phipps Bailey. An only child, she enjoyed the devotion of her parents and grandparents living under one roof during the Depression. Joann loved her life and was grateful for each day. She felt that just being born was a miracle. Then to live in America and Texas was a gift beyond measure. Joann was a member of the 1947 graduating class of Vernon High School in Vernon, Texas. She remained loyal to her schoolmates, returning for class reunions, weddings and funerals. Joann received her teaching degree from North Texas University and began her 32 years as a 4th grade teacher. She ended her long career at Country Day in Fort Worth. Joann and her best friend, Jene Foote, along with Jene’s mother, Gladys, bought 43 acres overlooking Lake Weatherford where they built their home. She loved living in the country and adored the wildlife, especially the deer. They raised horses, chickens, baby owls, cats, dogs and any stray that wandered onto their property. Jo taught a fledgling crow to speak and light a cigarette. Not one to be idle for long, she started a Promotional Products business, Jo Cap Co., that flourished for 15 years in Weatherford. Joann was preceded in death by her mother and stepfather, Cynthia and George Alguirre; her birth father, Carl and stepmother, Zelma Bailey; and Jene and Gladys Foote. Joann is survived by cousins that loved her, old and new friends that cherished her, and Kirk and Pam Johnson, her chosen children. We would like to extend our gratitude to the staff at Windsor Court Assisted Living and to Delain Taylor for always making Joann her priority and giving her the best care possible both in Jo’s home and in the facility. Also, a special thanks to the wonderful nurses from Gentiva Hospice for their kindness and care of Joann. As Jo declared every day, “I did the best I could!”