William "Willie" Reece Evans Jr.

William “Willie” Reece Evans, 78, of London Ohio, passed away peacefully at home with family by his side. Willie was born November 11, 1944, in Columbus, Ohio, the son of William and Mary (Harper) Evans.

After graduating from London High School, Willie joined the navy with a little help from “Coach Cochran”. He enjoyed his time in the Navy and he was very proud of it. He was assigned to the USS Little Rock and his home port was on the French Riviera. He visited a total of 31 ports in the Mediterranean Sea during his two years of service. He was honorably discharged on December 24, 1964. Shortly after, he began his employment at International Harvester in Springfield, Ohio, which later became Navistar International, where he worked for 38 years.  His hobbies included water skiing, fishing, and pheasant & rabbit hunting. At one time, he was a three-state champion in competitive trap shooting. He loved being on the water, and he owned several different boats over the years. He loved Lake Erie and taking his boat there to fish for Walleye. After a successful trip, he would invite family and friends over for a fish fry. He was a dedicated husband and father and worked hard to provide for his immediate and extended family.

Willie is survived by his children: Tonya (Evans) Stroup and Lance (Tina) Evans; Grandchildren: Ethan Stroup, Shane Stroup, Carrington (Matt) Hill, Jared Flowers, and Hailey Evans; Sisters: Virginia (Francis) Murray and Beverly Fink; sister-in-law; Patty Evans. Nieces and Nephews: Julie (Bill) Lanesey, Janet Murray, Tina Troche, Troy Fink, Tricia Bradham, Lexi (Lincoln) Comer, Josiah (Kriston) Evans, Randy(Billie) Daugherty. Kim(Kenny)Thompson, Cassie(Bill) Brungarth, and Jody(Craig)Hyde. He is preceded in death by his parents; loving wife: Vivian (Fout) Evans; Brother: David Evans and nephew; George "Chip" Jordan.

The family invites friends to attend a graveside service, Thursday, April 6, 2023, at 11:00am at Somerford Township Cemetery, 830 State Route 56 NW, London, Ohio 43140.

Willies services have been entrusted to Lynch Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 124 East High Street London, Ohio 43140.

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