James Jay “Jay” Evans, 66, of Bethalto, IL peacefully passed away at 7:50am on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at his residence.
Jay lived his life with a generous heart, always willing to lend a helping hand and support those around him. He deeply loved his three daughters, as well as golf, music, dancing, concerts, Clark Refinery softball leagues, bowling leagues, and, most of all, spending time with the family during lively game nights. He cherished the many days spent on the golf course with his close-knit golf buddies who always kept him busy by traveling to different golf courses as well as their annual golf trips. Throughout his life, he was blessed with many caring friends, family, neighbors and coworkers whose love and support meant so much to him.
Jay was an Army veteran, serving three years in Fulda, Germany as a stinger operator. During his time there, he made a lifelong friend, Paul "Pappy" Boyington, with over 40 years of cherished memories. He was formerly employed by Kinder Morgan, where he worked as a chemical operator, prior to his retirement in July 2023.
Jay was born on December 17, 1959, in Alton, the son of the late Larry Keith and Janice Marian (Rothe) Evans. Survivors include three daughters: Jessica Marie Evans of Wadsworth, Ohio, Lauren Jenay (Adam Sepulveda) Evans of East Alton, Kassandra Lea Evans of Moro, six grandchildren: Parker Evans, Maleya Solitario, Gianna Solitario, Kamdyn Solitario, Jameson Bell, Jaxon Bell, two sisters and a brother in law: Denise Hanson of St. Petersburg, Florida, Sandra (Greg) Sanders of Nixa, Missouri, two nieces: Michelle Korte, Ashley (Chris) Morris, a nephew: Dustin (Ayesha) Sanders, and a step sister: Dee Schallenburg of Godfrey.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a nephew: DJ Lujan.
Jaybird's Final Round:
In true honor of Jays life, a 4-Man Golf Scramble will be hosted at Lockhaven Country Club on August 22, 2026 with a 10am shotgun start. A "Celebration of Jay’s Life" will be held at 3pm immediately following and attendance for those who prefer not to golf. In lieu of flowers a donation is suggested to go towards a memorial in his name at Lockhaven County Club. Donations can be given at the celebration of life, or a check can be mailed to Pitchford Funeral Home, payable to Kassandra Evans. For those interested in attending the Golf Scramble, please contact Lockhaven County Club for registration.
Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River, IL is in charge of cremation arrangements.
Online guestbook available at www.pitchfordfuneralhome.com. Please feel free to share your favorite memory or story that we're sure he told many, many times. We all know Jay was famous for handing out nicknames, so please share your infamously dubbed nickname.
