James “Jim” Marvin Evans

James “Jim” Marvin Evans, 81, of Williamsport, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Jim was born June 18, 1944, in Williamsport, to Hannah and Russell Evans.

After high school, he proudly enlisted in the United States Army and devoted 20 honorable years to military service, retiring with the rank of First Sergeant (1SG). He was known for his bravery, dedication, and steadfast commitment to his fellow soldiers. His honors included the Purple Heart; Army Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster; Good Conduct Medal with Silver Clasp; Army Occupation Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Vietnam Service Medal; Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Bronze Star; Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm; Vietnam Campaign Medal; four overseas bars; Drill Sergeant Identification Badge; Senior Parachutist Badge; Expert Badge with Rifle M-16; and Marksman Badge with Pistol Caliber .45. Jim received the Purple Heart after being wounded in action during the Vietnam war, when he was shot in the leg while protecting his unit during a firefight, a reflection of his courage and selfless service.

He is survived by four daughters, Tammy Evans (Darcy Wright), Sherry (Rod) Heckman, Laurie Evans, and Jaime Evans; two sisters, Alice (Dick) Arthur and Dorothy Wagner; eleven grandchildren, Joshua, Vhanessa, Brooke, Taylor, Gage, Felisha, Kayla, Brandy, Kyra, Jocelyn, and Connor; and eleven great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joann; his parents, Hannah and Russell Evans; his brother, Robert; his sister, Gladys; and his grandson, Isaac.

A funeral service with military honors will be held at Twin Hills Memorial Park, 3332 Lycoming Mall Drive, Pennsdale, PA 17756, on Friday, June 19 at 11 a.m. The burial of his cremated remains will take place as part of the service and this will be open to the public.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made in Jim’s honor to a local veterans organization of your choice.