A tremendous void and a great loss has occurred in this community with the death of Mr. Freddie Evans. Words are inadequate to capture how much he meant to so many and the positive impact and influence he had as a teacher, coach, mentor, community leader, school administrator and friend.

My relationship with Mr. Evans began at Joseph Charles High School where he served as my coach and teacher. Our relationship reconnected last year as a result of him recommending me for membership on the Salisbury-Rowan Sports Hall of Fame Committee, where we served together until his untimely passing.

My purpose here is to honor his life and pay respect to a man who was a hero and very influential in the lives of so many. He was a faithful and loyal member of his church, where he served in multiple leadership positions. He was a loving husband to his wife and a great father to his children.

There is so much that can be written about Mr. Evans’ life and his lifetime of service to this community. He was a very important, influential and unifying presence during the integration of JC Price and Salisbury High School. I, as many others will, always remember him and cherish the fond memories we have of him forever!