Evelyn Lorraine Bryson Hancock, beloved mother and grandmother, a beacon of love and laughter and a most precious child of God, commended her eternal soul unto Christ on April 20, 2024, at the age of 88 in Warner Robins, Georgia. Born on September 18, 1935, in Port Huron, Michigan, Evelyn's life was much like the many afghans she crocheted over her lifetime - a sometimes complicated, intricate and always beautiful tapestry of devotion to her family, her faith, and her many passions.

Evelyn graduated from Memphis High School, where she laid the foundation for a life filled with learning and creativity. Her intolerance for the cold and little-known sense of high adventure eventually led her to leave her life in Michigan to move to SC with her family, only to have her husband pass away little more than a year later. Brave beyond measure and steadfast in her faith, she stuck it out and built a life for herself and her family, who were her eternal pride and joy. Eventually, she married the love of her life, the late David Hancock, and together they spent several wonderful years before he passed away at the young age of forty-six. Evelyn was a cherished mother to Susan Elaine Killian Green, Bryan Nelson Williams, Bradley Williams (Lisa), William "Bill" Williams (Sandra), Debbie Peach, and Marianne Galloway. She was a beloved sister to Lee Bryson, John Bryson, James Bryson, and Anna Hart. Her legacy continues through her twelve grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom she adored and loved immeasurably.

Evelyn's interests were as vibrant and varied as her personality. An excellent seamstress, she loved crocheting, crafts, and in her later years, she discovered a hidden passion for fashion design and beauty pageants. Her sharp mind and sense of humor were unmistakable, and she loved to laugh and joke around. Evelyn was a faithful member of Cross Roads Baptist Church, where she served as a Sunday School Teacher and church secretary over the years. When Bryan and Bradley were still young, she even founded The Good News Club in her home, a summer meeting place for community children to learn and grow in faith. Her passion, since knowing Christ, has been to bring Jesus to people and people to Jesus.

Her hands were rarely still, as she made clothing not only for her children but even for their dolls and Barbie's. Evelyn's caring nature meant she would lend a hand wherever it was needed, embodying the words faith-filled, loving, and funny. She took great pleasure in being told how beautiful she was by the residents and staff at her nursing home in Georgia, a fact that was evident to all who knew her and was known to be characterized as "A Lovely, Classy Southern Lady" even though she was born up north. Evelyn enjoyed her plants, watering them frequently with a smile, even if they were artificial- the realization of which brought even more laughter and a tinge of embarrassment.

In her golden years, Evelyn relished the simple pleasures of life, such as going for manicures and pedicures with her daughter-in-law, Lisa Williams and the occasional shopping trip to the mall to pick out her pageant attire. Her family will fondly remember these moments, as well as the countless times she brought joy and laughter into their lives.

Evelyn's presence was a gift to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her unwavering faith, her love for her family, and her infectious humor will be deeply missed but never forgotten. As we bid farewell to Evelyn Lorraine Bryson Hancock, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a spirit that will continue to inspire and guide us.

Evelyn's family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to all who shared in her life's journey. Her memory will be cherished and honored in the stories they share and the love they continue to give, just as she taught them. Evelyn's life was a testament to the beauty of a faith-filled heart, the strength of unbreakable family bonds, and the joy that can be found in every day.

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Evelyn Lorraine Bryson Hancock will be laid to rest at Cross Roads Baptist Church, surrounded by the family and friends she so dearly loved. Her spirit, her laughter, and her love will forever remain in the hearts of those who were touched by her extraordinary life.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 - 8:00 PM on Friday, May 3, 2024 at Baumgartner Funeral Home.

A Celebration of Life Graveside Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 4, 2024 at Cross Roads Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer's Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601.

Arrangements entrusted to Baumgartner Funeral Home of Pageland, South Carolina (www.baumgartnerfh.com).