Edna Evans

Edna Lee Evans, 83, of Bannister, MI, entered into her heavenly home Tuesday, June 2, 2020, at home surrounded by her family.

Funeral Services will be held at the Smith Family Funeral Homes Elsie, MI, on Saturday, June 6, 2020 at 11:00 A.M., with Pastor Zella Daniel officiating. Visitation will be held on Friday, June 5, 2020 from 2-8 P.M. with family present from 2-4 & 6-8 P.M. and on Saturday from 10 A.M. until the service at the funeral home.

Edna was born in Fulton Township, MI on January 11, 1937, the daughter of William Henry and Grace Lee (Lair) Shepherd. Edna graduated from Ithaca High School. On October 12, 1990, Edna married Edward Evans in Ithaca, MI. They were blessed with 29 years of marriage.

Edna was a lifelong caregiver. She dropped out of school to care for her father, and she nursed her daughter Lucinda back to health after a tragic accident. Her caring, loving heart never said no to a person in need, resulting in opening Countyline Inn AFC at her home and caring for many others.

Edna loved to cook and bake; she was well-known for her pies. She was an amazing seamstress and quilter. Edna encouraged her children to be involved in sports and was their softball coach. She was passionate about her faith and raising her children in the church. Her faith and love for her Lord shaped her life. Edna was a member of the Bannister United Methodist Church and an active member of the Ashley Lions' Club.

Edna's unconditional love for her family surrounded them and shaped their lives. Each one was "her favorite" in their own way. She encouraged them to do what was right, get their education, and follow their dreams.

Edna is survived by her husband Edward, 7 children: Pamela (Joseph) Klees of Crystal, Annette Billings of Bannister, Thomas (Olivia) Billings of Alma, Lucinda Sheltrown of Ithaca, Sandra (Jeff) White of Fulton, NY, Deanna (Bradley) Simmet of Ithaca, and William (Caroline) Billings of Elsie; 2 step-daughters: Deena (Ken) Haley of Brighton, and Mary (Mark) Jacobsen of Holt. She is also survived by 22 grandchildren: Brandy, Jason, Andrea, Michelle, Rachel, Ryan, Joshua, Katelyn, Justin, Cody, Brandon, Breena, Bradley, Jacob, Brady, Veronica, Joseph, Jeri Lyn, Camille, Maeve, Allison, and Madelynn; 35 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren, and many special nieces and nephews.  Edna was preceded in death by her parents, grandson Jeremy Klees, and siblings: Clarence Shepherd, Dean Shepherd, Arden Shepherd, Erma Kochensparger, and Beulah Whaley.

Memorials may be made to the Bannister United Methodist Church. To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Elsie, MI.