Chief Kenneth Wilson Evans III

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November 21, 1942 - September 2, 2023

Kenneth Wilson Evans, III, a beloved son, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend passed away on September 2, 2023, at Alamance Regional Medical Center in Burlington, NC. He was born in Alamance County, NC on November 21, 1942, to the late Kenneth Wilson Evans, Jr. and Carol Geanes Evans.

Kenneth's journey through life was marked by dedication, compassion and a profound love for his community. He was a proud graduate of Graham High School, Class of 1961, where he made a name for himself on the football field.

In January 1964, Kenneth embarked on a lifelong commitment to serving and protecting his community by joining the Graham Fire Department as a volunteer firefighter. His dedication led to his appointment as one of the department's first-ever full-time firefighters. This path culminated in May 1993 when he was appointed Fire Chief, a position he held with honor and distinction until his retirement in January 2003.

Kenneth’s early years were filled with hunting trips alongside his father and close friends. But it was after his retirement that fishing became his true passion, and he became known for his legendary fish stories. Whether fishing for a day, a week, or on his annual trips to the Outer Banks with friends, Kenneth found solace and joy in the serenity of the coast.

Kenneth is survived by his two sons, Gary of North Myrtle Beach, SC, and John (Kathryn) of Winter Springs, FL. Kenneth cherished his role as a grandfather, known affectionately as "granddaddy," to Kaci Evans of Graham, NC, Jessica Hutcherson of Mebane, NC, Layton, Elijah, Cheney, Nathaniel, and Oakley Evans of Winter Springs, FL. He is also survived by two sisters, Debbie Perrotta (Nickie) of Burlington, NC, and Sheryl Bullis (Dennis) of Graham, NC, along with numerous nephews, nieces, great-nephews, and great-nieces who held a special place in his heart.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his daughter, Kimberly (Kim) Evans, a sister, Kendra Bulla, and a great-granddaughter, Isabella Roach.

Kenneth will forever be remembered as a loving father, doting granddaddy, caring brother, and cherished uncle. To many, he was affectionately known as “Snapper,” “Stink,” “Chief” most importantly “Friend.” His absence is keenly felt by all who knew him and his memory will be cherished beyond measure.

Kenneth would be honored if the Graham Fire Department Retirees and current members serve as Honorary Pallbearers.  For the short time that Kenneth was at Twin Lakes he made many friends with residents as well as staff.  The family would like to extend a big thank you to the staff on Cascade and Piedmont Hall at Twin Lakes Community and we would feel honored to have you join us during the celebration of Kenneth. The family would also like to extend a special thank you to Rose Weaver for the friendship and care given to Kenneth over the years.

In accordance with Kenneth’s wishes, a celebration of his life will take place on Saturday, September 16, 2023, at McClure Funeral Service in Graham, NC. Visitation will be held from 1:00pm to 3:00pm, followed by the service at 3:15pm. Afterwards, you are invited to a gathering of friends and family hosted at the home of Sheryl and Dennis Bullis, 2158 Hathaway Lane, Graham, NC.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to North Carolina Coastal Federation, 3609 NC 24, (Ocean) Newport, NC. 28570 http://nccoast.org/give as a tribute to Kenneth's legacy of generosity, compassion and love of the NC coast. Kenneth W. Evans, III, will be dearly missed but celebrated in the way he desired, as a man who dedicated his life to the betterment of others.

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