April 8, 2026, 76, Goldsboro – Lanie Ray Evans, 76, went to be with his Lord on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Kitty Askins Hospice Center, surrounded by the peace of God’s presence. Born in Wayne County on October 22, 1949, he was the son of the late Martin Luther Evans, Jr. and Geraldine Roberts Evans. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Glenda Faye Evans.
Lanie was a man known for his servant’s heart, always willing to lend a helping hand at any time of the day. He found great joy in serving others, quietly offering his time, talents, and kindness wherever there was a need.
A gifted craftsman, Lanie had a remarkable ability to work with wood and could build just about anything—from beautiful china cabinets to custom doghouses. His skill and attention to detail were evident in every project he completed.
He also found simple joy in the beauty of God’s creation, especially in watching hummingbirds gather at the feeders he faithfully filled several times each week. These quiet moments brought him peace and reflected his deep appreciation for the world around him.
Lanie dedicated 30 years of service to Bridgestone Firestone in Wilson, where he worked as a systems specialist. Known for his ability to fix just about anything, he was someone family, friends, and neighbors could always depend on. His strong work ethic, instilled in him from a young age, was evident in all he did.
A man who felt closest to the Lord in nature, Lanie loved the outdoors. Whether tending his yard on his lawn mower or enjoying a peaceful day beneath blue skies, he embraced the beauty around him. He also enjoyed golfing and could often be found on the course sharing laughter and friendly competition with his friends, Danny, Billy, and Ronnie.
Lanie was a devoted fan of his favorite team, the Washington Redskins, always cheering them on with unwavering enthusiasm and loyalty.
Most importantly, Lanie was a man of deep and abiding faith. A dedicated member of Faro Chapel Pentecostal Free Will Baptist Church, he worshiped faithfully and lived out his love for the Lord in both word and deed. His life was a testament to quiet strength, kindness, and a true servant’s heart.
He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife of 41 years, Brenda Gay Evans; his sons, Martin Earl Evans and wife, Kim, and Andy Ray Evans; his daughters, Rhonda Harrell and husband, David, and Tammy Norman and husband, Tommy; eleven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Jean Leopard and husband, Lonnie and Connie Griffin and husband, Michael, along with many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.
The family will receive friends on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home. A service to celebrate Lanie’s life will be held at the graveside at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2026, in the James Berry Worrell Family Cemetery, with Pastors Drew Hill, Danny Hamm, and Don Sauls officiating.
Flowers are welcome, or memorial contributions may be made in his memory to Faro Chapel P.F.W.B. Church, 3616 Big Daddy’s Road, Fremont, NC 27830.
