Jim

James “Jim” Evans passed away on April 26, 2026, leaving behind a life defined by generosity, hard work, laughter, and a genuine love of Christ and people.

Jim never met a stranger. He loved being out in the world: in stores, on the road, at work, or simply striking up conversations wherever he went. Jim had a gift for telling jokes and sharing stories, often with people he had just met. His humor was easy and kind. It wasn’t uncommon for someone to say that Jim had made their day a little brighter just by talking with them.

A hardworking man through and through, Jim spent decades working as a welder and pipe fitter. He was known for his skill, dedication, and pride in doing things right. He believed in showing up, working hard, and taking care of responsibilities, values he carried quietly and consistently throughout his life.

Jim was also deeply generous, especially with his time and attention. Whether helping family, caring for loved ones, or simply listening to someone who needed to talk, Jim gave freely without expecting anything in return. His generosity was never loud or showy; it was steady, dependable, and sincere.

Those who knew Jim will remember his laughter, his jokes, his work ethic, and the way he made people feel welcome and accepted. More than anything, they will remember how deeply involved he was in the lives of his grandchildren. Jim did not simply love his grandchildren from a distance; he built real and meaningful relationships with each one of them. He made a point of showing up, calling, listening, and staying invested in what mattered to them. He tried never to miss a moment. The Thursday before he passed, he asked his daughter to drive him to two of his grandchildren’s track meet so he could watch from the car as they ran the 1600 meters. Whether it was a phone call, a game, a conversation, or simply making time for them individually, Jim made each grandchild feel known, important, and loved.

Jim was born on April 11, 1944, in Fort Collins. He was the second of seven siblings and grew up primarily in Cañon City, raised by his mother, Mayme Evans. Some of his most memorable childhood years were spent in Paradox, a place he carried fond memories of throughout his life.

He is survived by his older sister, Jean Linza, and his younger siblings, Jon Evans, Judy Clodfelter, Jennifer McGowan, Jeff Evans, and Jerry Evans.

In September 1978, Jim welcomed his daughter, Erin Reece, with Judy. Erin and her husband, Luke Reece, whom Jim loved as a son and friend, gave him four beloved grandchildren: Noah and Eleanore (twins), Imogen, and Hatcher Chet. Being involved in their lives was one of Jim’s greatest joys, and he treasured the close relationships he built with each of them.

In June 1990, Jim married Phyllis Evans, the love of his life and embraced her three children, Josh, Matt, and Jodi, as his own. Phyllis passed away in August 2023. Together, Jim and Phyllis shared a large and cherished family, including grandchildren Nichole, Sara, Madison, Jadon, Jackson, Zoe, Layla, Lilly, Zion, and Rayce, as well as four great-grandchildren who brought them tremendous joy.

A memorial service will be held on June 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. PST at Jim’s home in Moscow, located at 2495 Highway 95 North. A virtual memorial service will also be held at Whispering Pines of Denver Clubhouse, 7755 E Quincy Ave in Denver at 11am MST

Jim’s life was one of simple but profound faithfulness: to his family, his work, his faith, and the people around him. He leaves behind countless memories, stories, laughs, and conversations that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.