Mr. LaFayette Evans

Lafayette Evans, the third child of Benjamin Frank Evans, Jr. and Josie Lee Thornton was born January 16, 1941 in the Sand Hill Community. Lafayette attended what he labeled (Barksdale Elementary), a one room school located next to Pilgrim Branch Church in Goshen Springs, Pisgah Elementary and Pisgah Jr. High School. He attended Midway High school where he graduated in 1959. He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in physical education from Mississippi Industrial College in 1963. After graduating, he joined the US Army. After completing his military service, he relocated to Flint, Michigan with his best bud William (Frank Denson) Lee where they employed by the Chrysler Corporation. Lafayette loved all sports, but his passion was golf. He began his 42-yr career with the Detroit school system at Foster Elementary where he taught physical education before being hired as coach at Kettering high school. At age 29 he was named City Legue coach of the year in football. During his coaching years he was named coach of the year in football, track, and field. He retired as the Athletic Director for the city of Detroit, Michigan. Lafayette felt deep satisfaction with his role as a coach, as an administrator, and as a mentor of young students. As Coach and Athletic Director for the Detroit Public School System, he led four schools to championships in the City of Detroit: Kettering High School, Redford High School, Cooley High School, and Osborne High School. During his early years in Detroit, Lafayette quickly became an integral part of the community forging lasting friendships and adapting to life in the Midwest. His southern roots remained strong and he often reflected fondly on his upbringing in Mississippi sharing stories of Sand Hill and his formative school days. Lafayette grew up in a large family of five brothers and eight sisters. Willie James (Red), Henry (T), Matthew (Mike), Sidney, Lottie Mae, Jessye and Libby Jean will be waiting to happily welcome him. He will also be united with close childhood friends and family, Ray and Henry. For the remaining ones Frankie, Bessye, Annie Lois, Celia, and Bettie Jo will be left with a little less joy, some bewilderment, and more emptiness in our lives. Lafayette's pride and joy was his daughter, Amber Chere Mack (Corey Dewone Mack) and grandsons (Corey Mack Jr. and John Mack). He also leaves a host of other relatives and friends to cherish his memories.

Mr. LaFayette Evans

January 16, 1941 - July 28, 2025