John H. Evans

John Howard “Jack” Evans, 80, of Daytona Beach, Florida, and formerly of Indian Mills, New Jersey, peacefully passed away on December 11, surrounded by his loving family in Marlton, New Jersey. 

A devoted son, father, grandfather, soon-to-be great-grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, coach, and proud United States Marine, Jack was a man of boundless personality and heart. Known for his quick wit, generous spirit, impeccable taste, and a lifelong love of Hawaiian shirts, he never met a stranger and left an impression everywhere he went. 

Born on November 7, 1945, in Camden, New Jersey, Jack was the son of the late Raymond Sr. and Bertha (née Harker). He was raised in Collingswood, New Jersey, and graduated from Collingswood High School, Class of 1964. Shortly thereafter, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving honorably as an 0311 Infantry Rifleman. 

Jack proudly served his community in countless ways. He was a Paul Harris Fellow and President of the Garden State Rotary Club, where he chaired the annual holiday party for more than 1,200 developmentally challenged children, an effort he led with compassion, humility, and genuine joy. 

He was a legendary figure in the Indian Mills Athletic Association, coaching baseball at multiple levels and helping to create the Association’s first traveling soccer team while chairing numerous fundraising initiatives that left a lasting impact on the community he loved. 

During his tenure as President of the Shamong Township Board of Education, construction of the new middle school was completed, an enduring symbol of his leadership and dedication to education. His service is commemorated by a plaque bearing his name that remains on display at the school today. 

Professionally, Jack enjoyed a distinguished 35+ year career in sales management. Respected for his leadership and insight, he contributed to sales, marketing, business development, operations, and management at companies including W. T. Grant, Bell Atlantic, Verizon, RH Donnelly, Nextel, and Sprint. 

It was while working at W. T. Grant in Toms River that Jack met the love of his life, Rebecca (“Becky”). Together they built a warm, welcoming home in Shamong, New Jersey, raising their family, hosting legendary holiday gatherings, and filling their lives with laughter and love. When Becky bravely battled breast cancer, Jack remained unwaveringly by her side, serving as her devoted caretaker until her passing. 

Later in life, Jack found love again with Cheryl (Cher) Matthews. Embracing Cher’s family as his own, they shared travel, friendships, and the fulfillment of a long-held dream, retiring with his shaker of salt to Margaritaville, and enjoying life at a gentler pace while always close to the sea. Once again, Jack showed his deep capacity for love and loyalty, caring for Cher throughout her illness until the end.

A lifelong (and often long-suffering) fan of his beloved Iggles, Phillies, and Flyers, Jack approached sports the same way as life: with unbridled passion, humor, and loyalty. 

Jack is survived by his children: Ryan (Keshia), Kevin (Lauren), and Kelly (Michael); his stepdaughter, Chrissy (Robert); and his beloved grandchildren: Mia, Cole, Kameron, Madelyn, Lilly, Michael, Lief, and Noah, with granddaughter Mahala and a great-grandchild on the way. He is also survived by his sister, Jane Walker of National Park, NJ; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Cathy and Bob Brown of Carmi, IL; Godson, Raymond III (Linda) of Williamstown, NJ; and many nieces and nephews who he adored. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Rebecca (née Shipman); his brother and sister-in-law, Raymond Jr. and Lorraine; his brother-in-law, Michael; and his life partner, Cheryl. 

In accordance with his wishes, Jack was cremated. A Celebration of Life, referred to by Jack simply as “PARTYTIME!”, will be announced at a later date.