Barry Evans Sr.

Barry Eugene Evans, Sr. transitioned from this life on January 1, 2026. He was a man of undeniable strength—often misunderstood, yet deeply rooted in loyalty, protection, and love for his family.

He was affectionately known as “Big Gorilla,” not out of fear, but out of respect for the strength he carried and the burdens he bared.

Born in Knoxville, TN the twelfth child to Ruby Mae Evans November 17, 1965.

Barry was a member of St.Paul Missionary Baptist Church where he was baptized.

Known for his work ethics. He was self-employed being the Owner and Operator of Coat and Clean Refurbishing Company. Capturing several contracts with local apartments complexes and being known for his quality of work.If you known Barry he was father, family member and a mentor.

Barry was preceded in death by his parents, Ruby Evans and James Geter, Grandmother Jonella, sister Susie, brother, John, nieces, Angela, Fonda, and Lashae,and nephews Cornell and Travis.

He is survived by his son Barry Evans, Jr. daughter, Nastassia Ligon; grandchildren, Sumiyah and Reason “Lil Gorilla” his sisters, Grace Geter, Barbara Evans, Dorothy Gray, Cora Jones, and Donna Evans; his brothers, Arthur Evans, James Jones, Willie Evans Sr. (Priscilla), Raven Evans Sr.,Gregory Evans (Erika), and Steven Evans;Devoted friend Karen Hardin several nieces and nephews,dog Kush, and a host of other relatives and many dear friends.

The family will receive friends on January 11, 2026 from 2:00pm to 2:30pm at Jarnigan & Son Chapel, located at 2823 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave, Knoxville, TN 37914 with services to immediately follow. Interment will immediately follow services at Mt. Olive Cemetery, located at 2420 Maryville Pike, Knoxville, TN 37920.

Rest well. You are finally home.