Rita June Evans

Rita Evans, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, community servant, and longtime resident of Gun Barrel City, Texas; passed away on August 24, 2026, at the age of 77.

Rita lived a life centered around family, service, and helping others. She earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in May 1998 from Trinity Valley Community College and devoted many years of her life to serving the community she loved.

Rita worked for the Gun Barrel City Economic Development Corporation for 16 years, where she worked alongside city leaders, businesses, developers, and members of the community. Her dedication to Gun Barrel City eventually led her to public office. She was elected to the Gun Barrel City Council in 2020, where she continued serving her community and held the position of Mayor Pro Tem.

Her commitment to others extended far beyond City Hall. Rita volunteered with numerous community organizations and causes, including the Gun Barrel City Beautification Committee, Toys for Tots, and the Charter Review Committee.

Perhaps one of the greatest examples of Rita’s heart was her incredible years of service to the Mabank Special Olympics, now known as the Cedar Creek Mustangs. Her dedication to individuals with special needs was a beautiful reflection of the compassion, generosity, and love she carried throughout her life.

But, of all the titles Rita held, the ones that meant the most were Mom, and Granny.

Rita is preceded in death by her parents, Frank Henry Barina Sr., and Idella Barina; son, Harold Evans; sisters, Georgia Ausburne and Gail Sharp; brother, Frank Barina; and granddaughter, Taylor Evans.

Rita is survived by her son, Kenneth Evans and wife Jennifer of Athens, Texas; daughter, Kelly Evans of Gun Barrel City, Texas; daughter-in-law, Maria Hernandez Evans of Waxahachie, Texas; grandson, Tyler Evans of Scurry, Texas; granddaughter, Kenzie Evans of Athens, Texas; granddaughter, Isabel DeCastro of Athens, Texas; granddaughter, Sophie DeCastro of Athens, Texas; great-granddaughter, Jordyn Evans of Scurry, Texas; sister, Dorothy Hoenig of Mesquite, Texas; sister, Mary Barina of Mesquite, Texas; brother, James Barina, of Mesquite, Texas; sister, Wanda Rodriguez of Gun Barrel City, Texas; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Rita’s life was one of service, strength, compassion, and an unwavering devotion to the people she loved. She gave so much of herself to her family and to the Gun Barrel City community, touching countless lives along the way. Her absence will be deeply felt, but the impact she made during her 77 years will remain. Her family will carry her love with them, and the community she served so faithfully will carry forward the legacy she leaves behind.