By DOROTHY L. KING

The year 1963 is entrenched in the hearts and minds of this nation. Many chronological events happened that helped shape and change this country. Three very noteworthy moments are: the famous March on Washington where Dr. King delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech, November 22nd when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated and December 1963, when God sent Reverend Doctor William T. Evans, Sr., a 33 year old, newly married preacher to Montevallo to fill the role of Pastor and Reconciler. From 1963-1974 Reverend Evans diligently preached messages of love, comfort and hope in an attempt to unite Shelby county communities divided by racial strife.

Times were turbulent and Reverend Evans had a passion to see people from all backgrounds come together and worship in freedom. Therefore, in 1975, he, along with 40 Montevallo residents, founded Faith Missionary Baptist Church, located on Highway 17 in the Dogwood community. Until his retirement on December 15, 2013, he served as the church’s Senior Pastor for 38 years. During Reverend Evans 50 years in the ministry, he and his family overcame countless obstacles. Yet, in spite of the myriad of challenges, he willingly dedicated roughly half of his life to serving people. Over the course of his ministry he baptized hundreds of children, married over 100 couples, ordained over 10 pastors (including his son, the late Thaddeus Evans), and preached over 600 funerals.

Not only is Reverend Evans a very prominent pastor and prolific orator, he is an astute businessman and land developer. He’s a devoted husband of over 50 years to Mrs. Deloris Evans, father of four; grandfather of nine, great grandfather of one, and advisor to many city leaders. Reverend Evans received his Bachelor of Theology Degree from Birmingham Baptist Bible College. He also studied at Southeastern Bible College and Brooklane Academy. When asked how he maintained his success as a spiritual leader, he said, “I just always did what God told me to do!” Reverend Evans presently serves as Chaplain for Shelby Baptist Medical Center.