Doyce Faye Evans

Doyce Faye Evans, lovingly known as “Papap” to generations of family and friends, passed away on October 17, 2026, in Hot Springs, Arkansas, at the age of 93. He was born on January 20, 1933, in Fendley, Arkansas, and lived a long life marked by love, faith, hard work, and devotion to his family.

Doyce was the heart of his family and a man who had a special way of making everyone feel loved and valued. He was a wonderful husband to his beloved wife of 58 years, Velma J. Evans, and a devoted father to their children. He never needed a special occasion to show his love, often surprising Velma with flowers for no reason at all. In the evenings, he would read the Bible to his children, sharing the Word of God and teaching them about the faith that was the foundation of his life. His love for Jesus was evident in the way he lived each day, and he always tried to see the good in everyone. He made it a priority to take his grandchildren to church, wanting them to know the same love and faith that guided him throughout his life.

Some of Doyce's happiest moments were the simple ones spent with his family. He loved taking everyone camping, making memories together, and playing with his children and grandchildren. He had a playful spirit and a heart big enough to make not only his own family, but so many others, feel like they belonged. To know him was to love him, and to many beyond his own family, he was simply Papap.

A proud veteran, Doyce served during the Korean War. Following his service, he worked as a carpenter, using his hands and skills to build throughout his life. But his greatest work was the life he built with his family—the memories they shared, the values he passed down, and the love he gave so freely. He leaves behind a legacy built not only with his hands, but with his heart, his example, and the faith he instilled in those he loved.

Doyce was preceded in death by his parents, Johnnie and Leona Evans, and his beloved wife, Velma J. Evans. He is survived by his three children, Tamara Chrisco and her husband, Chad; Terry Evans; and Derrek Evans; his five grandchildren, Daniel, Jennifer, Jannette, Matthew and Joy; thirteen great-grandchildren; and nine great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his two brothers, Charlie and Wayne, and his two sisters, Johnnie Lou and Corrine, along with a host of extended family members and dear friends who knew and loved him as Papap.

A Visitation will begin at 12:00 PM with a service to immediately follow at 1:00 PM on Thursday, October 22, 2026 at Smith Family Funeral Home in Hot Springs. Burial will follow the service at Jones Cemetery in Amity. 

Though his family grieves the loss of a man who meant so much to so many, they find comfort in the faith he lived by and the promise of eternal life he believed in so deeply. Doyce will forever be remembered as the heart of his family—a loving husband, devoted father, playful Papap, and faithful servant of Jesus Christ.