Harry Evans

Harry Ted Evans, a long-time resident of Gainesville, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 14th, 2026. ‘Ted’ will be remembered not only by his family, but by all who knew him for his devotion to family, quiet strengths, work ethic, knowledge, humor, generosity, pleasant nature, and his kindness to others.
Ted was born in Hancock County, Ohio to Harry Clay and Leona (Ridge) Evans on November 26th 1927, where he grew up and graduated from Van Buren High School in 1945. After graduating he joined the U.S. Army during WW2. He served his country proudly as a Staff Sergeant from 1946-47 while stationed in the Philippines. Upon returning home he went into farming with his father for the next 12 years. He remembered those times fondly, and often shared his stories and memories.
In1948, he married his high school sweetheart, Doris Sherick…the Love of his Life. Together they began their life and family together. Ted cherished and upheld his role as husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He took great pleasure in watching his family grow and succeed. Their long life together was a testament to love, friendship and commitment to family.
In 1952 Ted went to work for the USDA Soil Conservation Service and attended
Ohio Northern University. After working in Ohio, Mississippi, Florida, Connecticut and Washington DC., Ted retired in 1983 and he and Doris moved to Hawthorne, Florida. He then designed and built his first retirement home on Redwater Lake, where he especially enjoyed fishing and making many memories with friends and family. He enjoyed retirement activities for many years; oil painting, gardening, cooking, traveling the US and abroad and hosting and attending many family gatherings and celebrations.
Ted became active in his new Hawthorne community. He volunteered as Project Manager in the restoration of the New Hope United Methodist Church into what is now The Hawthorne Historical Museum. He was an active member of the Hawthorne American Legion, Post 230, and was their last living WW2 Veteran on record.
Ted is survived by his beloved wife of 77 years, Doris Evans of Gainesville, FL, his sons Scott Evans and his wife Wendee of Gainesville, FL, Alan Evans and his wife Ann of Alexandria, VA, 7 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild and his sister Sarah (Evans) Kuhlman of Finley, OH, brother Tom Evans and his wife Shirley of Finley, OH and their families.
Ted’s life was defined by the people he loved and the relationships he nurtured. He created a home and family that reflected the values he held dear and that he lived by for a lifetime. His legacy will live on through his sons, and the generations that follow.
The family is grateful for the love, care and support that Ted received throughout his life, especially during his final years. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions or actions be made to the organization or charity of your choice.
There will be a Memorial honoring Ted at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of Milam Funeral home, Gainesville, Fl. Please visit Ted’s Remembrance page at their website at www.milamfh.com.