Evelyn Avant was born to John Wesley Ray and Willie Mae Ray on October 29, 1931 in Fulton, Kentucky.

Evelyn began her education in the Rosenwald School System in Fulton, KY. She moved to Indianapolis, IN in the late 1950’s and years later continued her education and received her High School Diploma from the Indianapolis Public School System.

Evelyn was united in Holy Matrimony to Conwell Avant in 1961. This union was blessed with two sons and two daughters. Evelyn was a dedicated wife and homemaker, taking meticulous care of her household. She was truly a Proverbs 31 woman. Evelyn also opened her heart and home to many other children by providing Daycare services.

Evelyn enjoyed decorating and redecorating her home, especially wallpapering, much to her children’s dismay, as they were the involuntary ‘free labor’.

Evelyn dedicated her life to service in the Church of God in Christ. Over the years she served in many capacities including Church Secretary, YPWW, Children’s Nursery, Sunday School, Sunshine Band and Vacation Bible School. She was also on the Mother’s Board at her current church, New St. Mark Church of God in Christ.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, stepson, Jerry Avant and all of her siblings: Sisters – Clara Mae Ray, Mary Lou Smith, Willie Vett Thomas, Ruby Nell Ray, Barbara Jean Harden; Brothers – Hazel Ray, James Alonzo Ray, John Ray, Garland Ray.

Evelyn will be lovingly remembered by: her children, Bryan E., Kathleen F., Sara J. and Anthony W. Avant; her stepchildren, Conwell, Jr., Glennie and Josephine Avant; Grandchildren: Quentin A., Dustyn A., Sarah M., and Jonathan C. Avant; Great-grandchildren: Liliana N. Vargas-Avant and Silas D. Avant; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.