Zelma Ruth Evans

Zelma Ruth Sanders, affectionately known as mama, mother, and Granzy, believed wholeheartedly in making sacrifices for her family and she operated using her faith in God. Zelma had a heart of gold and was a powerful influence to the people she met each and every day. She lit up a room with her infectious smile and contagious personality. Her spirit radiated abundantly and she drew people to her through her kind and gentle spirit.

Zelma was born November 29, 1942 to Artie Ruth and Reverend Tony Sanders. Her brother, Matthias Clifton Sanders, Sr. was later born in 1944. Together they lived in the projects with their parents in Fort Worth, Texas. As a child, Zelma suffered from rheumatic fever, which later impacted her health and ability to participate in strenuous activities. As a result of her childhood illness, Zelma developed a resilience to overcoming many trials, obstacles and tribulations as she completed her primary, secondary and post-secondary studies. Her goals were big and for good reason. While growing up in the projects, she wanted so much more in life and was determined to make it happen.

Zelma is a proud graduate of Dunbar High School and later pursued her Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education at Prairie View A & M University. She also received her bilingual endorsement in Spanish while completing this degree. While an undergraduate student at Prairie View A&M University, Zelma met Thomas Allen Evans as she was presented in the Fort Worth Assembly Debutante. She fell in love with him and married in June, 1966. They later had two daughters, Charmayne Denise and Tania Renee. Although Zelma had responsibilities of being a mother and an elementary classroom teacher, she had a desire to attain a graduate degree and began pursuing a Master’s degree in Bilingual Education at Texas Woman's University. While there, she received a scholarship to travel abroad and study the Spanish language in Spain for the summer.

Zelma was an active member of First St John Baptist Church under Reverend Moss and involved Charmayne and Tania in many extracurricular activities such as gymnastics, drill team, and cheerleading. Zelma worked full time as a classroom teacher for 33 years and enjoyed retirement for over 23 years. During this time, she worked and volunteered in the church summer program, Club Can Do. She taught the students Spanish during the summer and she enjoyed the opportunity to share her love of the language.

Zelma was an amazing woman. Her accomplishments in life speak for themselves. She was Teacher of the Year during her career while being the caregiver to her husband, mother-in-law, mother and brother. She took each responsibility with pride and was diligent until God said, “Well done!” God called Zelma home on Sunday, October 1, 2023. She passed the test of time with tremendous strength and will experience no more earthly pain and suffering.

Zelma Ruth (Sanders) Evans will always be loved by her family and friends that have come to know her. She is survived by two daughters: Charmayne Evans Williams and Dr. Tania R. White; six grandchildren: Joshua A. Williams, Jeremiah O. Williams, Joseph M Williams, Sergeant Gary D. White, J.,, Tianna A. White, and Taniyah D. Sumberlin; one great grandchild: Kehlani A. Williams; eight siblings: Matthias C. Sanders, Sr, Antonio E. Sanders, Dr. Courtney L. Quiroga, Weetor L. Sanders, Etta J. Sanders, Toye C. Ferguson, Marilyn L. Thomas, and Audrey A. Wright; and a host of other relatives, former colleagues, and dear friends.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.gwspencerdirs.net for the Evans family.