With hearts full of love and cherished memories, we mourn the loss and celebrate the life of Darlene "Dee" Lou Evitts, who passed away peacefully on July 24, 2026, in Mississippi. Born on April 30, 1960, in California, Darlene was a radiant spirit whose deep compassion and unwavering strength shaped the lives of all who knew her.

Darlene was the embodiment of devotion—her family knew her not only as a loving wife, mother, Nana, sister, and friend, but also as the foundation upon which so many stood tall. She was fiercely independent, a woman whose caring heart touched those both near and far. Her words resonated with clarity, for Darlene was truly outspoken—never shying away from lending a voice to what mattered most. Her enduring faith was a cornerstone of her being; Darlene loved the Lord deeply and let that devotion shine brightly through all that she did.

She leaves behind her beloved husband, Dale Evitts, whose partnership and love was the anchor of her days. Darlene's nurturing spirit lives on through her sons—Bobby (Dawn) Davenport, Roger (Jamie) Gunter, and Dale Evitts II—and her daughter Stacey (Lonnie) Craig, who continue to hold dear the lessons she bestowed and the bond they shared.

“Nana” to many, Darlene’s legacy is celebrated by her precious grandchildren: Brytnni (Lance) Holly, Kent (Savannah) Lizana, Kayla (Tim) McCabe, Tyler (Kaylee) Davenport, Kourtney Avera, Madison Avera, Alyssa Tinsley, Maddie Davenport (Antonio Hernandez), Jackson Lee, Makyla (Seth) Welch, Hayley (Savannah) Gunter, Corbitt Gunter, Canaan Gunter, Kaitlynn (Drew) Bossier, Ashleigh (Aaron) Wren, Billie Sioux Bennett, each of whom carries forward her warmth and guidance. Her family circle is further enriched by her sisters Debra (Ricard) Olier, Arlene (Jim) Evitts, and Beverley (Bill) Broadus; and her brothers Cecil (Sue) Page, Alton Page, and David Melvin and one son-in-law David Roberts. 

As we honor her remarkable journey, we remember those family members who went before her: her father Isaiah Page, her mother Letha (James) Melvin her daughter Jackie Roberts, and her beloved grandchild Jourdan Davenport. She is also reunited in spirit with her sisters Sandra Spooner, Carolyn Gieger, Elizabeth Pierson, and her brothers Kenny Ray Melvin, Tommy Page, Larry Page, and Jimmy Page.

Throughout her life, Darlene’s home was always open and welcoming. She lifted spirits when times grew dim, and her sincere love wrapped around her family in comfort and understanding. Her warmth radiated outward, making friends and strangers alike feel seen and valued. Whether she was offering a listening ear or a word of encouragement, her caring and generosity knew no bounds.

Strong and independent, Darlene faced life’s challenges and joys head-on—with the same determination that made her an inspiration to her loved ones. Her memory will forever remind us to be courageous, to speak our truth, and above all, to lead lives filled with kindness and faith.

A memorial service honoring Darlene Lou Evitts will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Trinity Funeral Services McHenry, located at 319 U.S. 49, McHenry, Mississippi.

As we gather to celebrate her life, we know that the essence of Darlene—her love, her laughter, her unwavering faith—remains woven into the hearts and memories of those fortunate enough to have known her. Darlene’s journey on this earth may have concluded, but her spirit and devotion live on forever through her family, her friends, and the countless lives she touched.

Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the Evitts family and ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers in the days to come.