Jay T. Evans, 65

Jay T. Evans died June 15, 2020, in New Orleans, where he lived for 45 years.

Born in Missoula, April 21, 1955, he grew up and attended school in Kalispell, graduating from Flathead High School in 1973. Subsequently he attended Kicking Horse Job Corps, developing skills that he valued all his life. Later he earned a master’s degree in urban planning from the University of Louisiana in Lafayette.

Jay’s life was unconventional and vibrant. He relished life in the midst of the history, architecture, music and people of his chosen home. He was a skilled craftsman and contributed to the restoration of many historic French Quarter homes. He was witty and sweet. People liked to talk to him. He was committed to progressive values, but never judgmental of others. Deeply responsive to the significance of artistic endeavor, Jay enjoyed the friendship and regard of a broad spectrum of creative people. His character was marked by enormous generosity, willingly sharing his skills, resources, or his last dollar, with no thought of return. On many occasions he traveled to assist with his numerous family member’s renovation projects, contributing his talent and unique perspectives unstintingly.

Jay is survived and mourned by his brothers and sisters, Lexie Evans in Missoula, Troy Evans and Heather McLarty in Los Angeles, Cly F. Evans and Charlotte Streit in Echo Lake, Montana, Jill Evans and John Owen in Whitefish, Todd Evans and Kanako Matsumoto in Renton, Washington, Katryn Perry and David Perry in Whitefish, Leo Bruce Evans in Missoula, and nine nephews and nieces.

A celebration of his life and spirit will be shared by family members when it is safer to travel and gather.