Gary Ray Evans

Gary Ray Evans, 77, a native of San Diego, California, and most recently of Franklin, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2025.

He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 55 years, Cheri Evans; daughter Christi Davis; son-in-law Matt Davis; brothers Kenny and Donny Evans; and the joy of his later years, his grandchildren Nathan and Everly Davis, who were truly the wind beneath his wings.

Gary’s life was layered with purpose, passion, and deep faith. He had a rich and varied career—from interviewing legends like Johnny Bench and Pete Rose, to appearing in a Muhammad Ali documentary during his years as a sportscaster. His love for music began as a DJ after college and continued through his popular live show, Good Times Unlimited: The Gary Evans Show, and later with The Evans Brothers Band.

But above all else, Gary’s life was defined by his relationship with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He gave his life to Christ in 1980 and never looked back. He sought the heart of the Lord with every fiber of his being. He didn’t just preach the gospel—he lived it. From feeding the homeless on the streets of San Diego to countless hours counseling individuals battling addiction, Gary’s quiet acts of service touched innumerable lives. His signature “love notes,” which he handed out wherever he went (even when family asked him not to), became a symbol of his unwavering commitment to love others boldly and unashamedly.

Gary never shied away from a challenge. He skied black diamonds in the Rockies, surfed the waves of Trestles, jumped off cliffs (despite his family’s discouragement), raced Odysseys with his young daughter through the dunes of Glamis, and proudly taught both of his grandchildren how to swim. He loved his San Diego Padres, Chargers, SDSU Aztecs, the ocean, and all things sports—but nothing compared to the fierce love he had for his family.

From the moment he held his baby daughter to celebrating even the smallest milestones of his grandchildren, Gary was fully present—always. Even wheelchair-bound in the sweltering Tennessee heat, he wouldn’t have traded watching his grandkids’ games for the world.

He faced death without fear, confident in the promises of Heaven and eager to reunite with loved ones who had gone before him. While his passing leaves a deep void, we take comfort in the legacy he leaves behind—most especially in the lives of his grandchildren, who will always cherish their memories of playing Uno, watching sports, and learning about the God of Heaven and Earth, the cornerstone of their grandfather’s life.

We love you, Boba. Life won’t be the same without you here, but we know you’re watching—front row at every soccer and football game, without needing those crazy binoculars. We find comfort in knowing you are now healed, dancing on streets of gold, golfing with your buddies, and deep in conversation with your heroes.

Until we meet again.

—Your loving family

If your life was impacted by Gary, the family would be honored to hear your stories. Please email them to garyrayevans@gmail.com