Robert Franklin Evans

Nashville – Robert (Bob) Franklin Evans, age 69, passed away on Wednesday, March 31, 2021. He was born on May 19, 1951 in Dalton, GA, to the late W.R. Evans and Martha Thornton Evans. He is preceded in death by his sister Jane Evans MacPherson.

Bob is survived by his wife, Katherine Evans; son, Robert Austin Evans; sister, Ann Evans Edwards; and nieces Margo Edwards, Sarah MacPherson Drobis, Elizabeth MacPherson, and Kathleen Edwards.

He spent his childhood and adolescent years growing up in Dalton, GA, and when not there, spending time at the family cabin by Lake Ocoee in TN. Bob loved track and field, and as the local Dalton newspaper described, he was “…one of the outstanding hurdlers in the North Georgia area…”. He won numerous events in each Meet, leading the Dalton High School Catamounts to a Regional Championship and in turn qualifying for the AAA State Meet.

Bob met his wife Katherine at the University of Georgia at Homecoming. He went on to work his entire life in the carpet industry, having a successful career as a Territory Manager for Shaw Industries, Engineered Floors, and Pharr Yarns. The carpet industry was something close to him, as his family is inextricably linked to the founding of the modern carpet industry through Catherine Evans Whitener. In 1895, Catherine laid the foundation for this industry by finishing Dalton’s first hand-tufted bedspread.

Bob will be remembered by his family and close friends for his zest for life, which would always manifest itself in seeking out new experiences. He loved cultural events and festivals, travel, cooking, and scuba diving. Bob was an ever-generous host and loved to entertain those close to him. His focus, regardless of the age of those around him, was to ensure that everyone was having a special time.

A memorial service will be held at 4:00PM in the afternoon on Tuesday, April 20, 2021, at the Village Chapel, 2021 21st Ave. South Nashville, TN 37212.