Lois "Joan" Hoover Evans (89) of Beecher City

Lois “Joan” Hoover Evans, a cherished and respected member of the Beecher City community, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2024, at the age of 89.

Born on April 8, 1935, in Cowden, Illinois, she was the beloved daughter of Kermit and Freida "Fern" (Jones) Hudson. A 1953 graduate of Cowden High School, Joan’s career was marked by her dedicated service as the postmaster in Stewardson, a role she fulfilled with distinction until her retirement in 2000. Her commitment to her community was further exemplified by her involvement with the Beecher City United Methodist Church and her notable 50-year membership with the Order of the Eastern Star. Joan’s personal life was filled with love and partnership. She first married Neal Wood, and together they welcomed three children into the world: Leslie, Mark and Lisa. Though her marriage with Neal ended, Joan found love again and was united in marriage with John Hoover, who preceded her in death. Her heart's capacity for love proved vast as she found love again with David Evans until his passing. Joan was an excellent cook, a lover of travel, and an individual who treasured every moment spent with family and friends.

She is survived by her children: Leslie Wood, Mark Wood (Connie Gilbert), and Lisa Kopf (Shane Austin), all of whom reside in Beecher City; three grandchildren: Adam (Deana) Hunt, Dillon Arnold, and Summer Wood; seven great-grandchildren; sister, Carole Songer of Mt. Zion; four stepchildren: Marla Helmuth of Beecher City, David (Sheila) Evans of Altamont, Keith Evans of Altamont, and Laura Evans of Beecher City and many nieces and nephews.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Kermit and Fern Hudson; her two husbands, John Hoover and David Evans, and her brother, Dean Hudson.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 27, 2024, at Beecher City United Methodist Church with Pastor Jessie George officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow in Mound Cemetery in rural Cowden. Memorials may be given in Joan’s honor to the Beecher City United Methodist Church or the Beecher City Kluthe Center and can be mailed to 302 W. Main St., Shelbyville, IL 62565. Lockart-Green Funeral Home in Beecher City is assisting the family. Family and friends are invited to light a candle or share a story by clicking here.