Evan Mark Durham

September 1, 1979 ~ May 9, 2004
Resided in:
Asheville, NC
Asheville, NC - Evan Mark Durham, 24, of Asheville, died unexpectedly Sunday, May 9, 2004.
A native of Asheville, he was the son of Janice Elaine Morgan Youngblood, and her husband Curtis Youngblood, of Fairview, NC and Ken Durham of Charlotte.
Evan was a graduate of A.C. Reynolds High School and a 2002 graduate of Appalachian State University, receiving a double degree in Accounting and Computer Information Systems. He was a member of Delta Chi Fraternity and was a Driver Manager with Youngblood Truck Lines.
In addition to his mother, stepfather and father, he is survived by his two sisters, Carly Rebecca Durham of Fairview and Kathryn Youngblood Kehoe of Mason, Ohio; two brothers, Matthew Morgan Youngblood of Fairview and John Curtis Youngblood, III of Fairview. He is also survived by his maternal grandmother, Velda Morgan of Candler, NC and the late Garnett Morgan.
A memorial service will be held at 3:00 pm Thursday at Central United Methodist Church in Asheville, conducted by the Rev. Dr. Robert M. Blackburn. Evan's family will receive friends following the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to ABCCM, 24 Cumberland Avenue, Asheville, NC 28801.
Words cannot describe the sadness in my heart due to the loss of this truly extraordinary being. I met Evan when I was in the third grade and he was in the fourth. We were on the school bus together. One day some of the older kids started picking on me; they didn’t believe what I was saying. It was getting pretty brutal, suddenly this kid, not much older than me, stood up and asked them how they knew that it wasn’t true. They were puzzled by his action, but left me alone. That was the first time I met Evan and I think it’s a fine example of his character and moral fiber. At a young age he knew right from wrong and wasn’t afraid to stand up for what he believed. We became best friends, and I was fortunate enough to spent lots of time with Evan over the years. After high school, we went different directions, and I’ll always regret that I didn’t keep in closer touch. Evan made a difference in my life and in this world. My thoughts and prayers are with the family and with Evan.
I’m sorry that I’m just now getting around to this, but I’ve been on the road and just got in.
I got to know Evan when he worked in the shop during summer break from college, it was easy to get to know him although a lot of the time he didn’t say much, he would always listen to the drivers and mechanics talk, like he was taking mental notes and learning. when I picture evan in my mind it is always with that little grin. we don’t always understand why things like this happen to someone so young but i guess its a part of life and when we go through something like this jesus said he is a friend that will stick closer to us than a brother. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy paths. Prov chpt 3 verse 6.
I knew Evan throughout high school. He was always kind and genuine. Two characteristics not typical of many high school students . . .
To Evan’s family: I am so sorry for your loss. I will keep you in my prayers. May God comfort you during this time of loss.
I pray the the Lord will continue to sustain you as you finish your own races in this world, before seeing Evan again. It has been months for you, I know, but I just heard the news yesterday. You are in my prayers today. I will never forget Evan.
By His Grace,
Joanna (Pruden) Mericle
Evan, we will never understand why God took you at such a young age, but only he knows what the future held for you.
Your in heaven now, away from all of the trouble the world is in. Tell Nanny hi for me. See you soon!
I love you and will miss you!
Lisa Wilson Welchel
Evan,
I was so sad to hear the news of your sudden death. You were so young and had a lifetime ahead of you. But only our Father in Heaven knows the reasons for taking you home so soon. I haven’t seen you now in so many years, but you grew up into a handsome young man.
I’m deeply sorry for the pain that the family is going through, and please know that all of you are being lifted up in prayer. May God wrap you all in comfort and in His Love during this difficult time.
Amy (Jarvis) Shuler and Nathan Shuler
Thanks for the friendship.
Lon & Marge Stepp
Evan,
I am glad to have known you. My only wish is that it had to end like this. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. You left us for a reason, why I am not quite sure. This world is crazy and it is missing a person who made a difference. I will miss you my friend, until we meet again at heaven’s gate. I Love You.
To Evan’s Family:
My heart goes out to you at this time. My prayers will be with you today.
I remember Evan as a very kind young man.
Love In Christ, Jane Barbour Simmons, Larry Simmons, Chris & Justin Simmons
Dear Janice, My prayers are with you in this time of your sadness. My deepest sympathy to you and your family. Susan Snyder
Dearest Janice,
I am so saddened by the loss of your son. It seems only yesterday you were stuffing saltine crackers down your throat during morning sickness at the VA in Asheville.
My thoughts are with you and your family.
One of my fondest memories of Evan (and there are plenty, to be sure) was sitting in his room at the old house on Hummingbird Hill, just after he had finished building his loft. He was so happy because it turned out exactly the way he wanted it to. From then on, whenever we wanted a new piece of furniture, we built it, because we knew Evan would help us.
Evan and I sat next to each other at graduation, he got me a job at First Union, we lived together for more than two years and we were pledge brothers. There were so many good times; it seems impossible to remember them all.
Evan took pride in everything that he did, especially his academics and his handiwork. His devotion to his family was inspiring to many. It was a joy to know him, live with him and work with him. He will truly be missed. My condolences go to all his loved ones, I’m sorry that I can’t be at the service Thursday.
We are so saddened to learn of Evan’s death. Being in California, we are unable to attend the memorial service, but please know our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May our Heavenly Father comfort you all and give you peace in this hard thing to reconcile.
I was very fortunate to know Evan all through high school. We were in JROTC and the marching band together…What a wonderful person. He will truly be missed.
My heart goes out to you and your family. I can personaly say I know what you are going through at a time like this. I promise things will get easier as time goes by. Lean on your family and friends because it helps.
I new Evan through most of my college years and have many fond memories. I too remember Evan’s excitement when he completed his goal of building the loft. He wanted everyone to check it out. He was smiling ear to ear and he wouldn’t stop. I will never forget just recently his visit to December 03′ Graduation where TJ, Trace, John, and Jason graduated. We hung out at the new house(A-Frame)and it was nice seeing all the guys together. They were rocking out to some old tunes and then all gathered around for one last hurrah of Billy Joel’s ‘Piano Man’. It was the last time I saw Evan, but I could see how truly happy he was. I will remember that night forever. My thoughts and prayers go out to him and his family.
I spent many weekends with Evan and Reed and the ‘A-Frame’ Delta Chi brothers at ASU. Evan was a friend from the start…I only wish I could have gotten to know him even better. My thoughts and prayers go out to him, his family, and his countless number of friends.
Evan,
I don’t know what to say. I came to your funeral but can imagine that you probably looked down and laughed at me for crying all the way through it. We last talked on the Tuesday afternoon before the weekend that you left us, and I’ve never heard you so excited. You were on your way down to Charlotte to see your Dad for a few days, and had just made plans to start a new job and begin taking classes again in the fall. You were, without a doubt, bubbling over with life. I am so happy that this was the tone of our last conversation. Even though you’re gone, I have thought of you and your family so often. It warms my heart to think of the day last fall when you called me out of the blue, and we started to talk again. How lucky we all are to have had your company, love, friendship, and dedication. We miss you, love you, and know that we’ll see you again.
love always,
Cary
Evan and his family will be in all of our thoughts and prayers. Some of my fondest memories from college are with him. Evan took pride in everything he did, and was a true friend that you could always count on. He will be greatly missed, but not forgotten.
The thing about Evan (E-Train) that I admired most was his dedication to his family and morals. Evan never mixed words on an issue. He spoke what he believed, even when it was not popular. He stoodby what he believed and did not cave into peer pressure. That is something unusual for a young person in college.
My fondest memories of E-Train will be hanging out at my apartment when he was pledging.
My and my families thoughts and prayers are with Evan’s family. You can see how many lives Evan was able to touch by the number of entries here and the geographic areas that are represented.
Evan you will truly be missed.
ITB
Kevin & Elizabeth Hutchins
To Evan’s Family we send our love and prayers that the Lord will give you His strength during this time of grief. We so loved getting to know Evan as he grew up at our family reunions. He was always a gentleman and would be so patient to play with the younger cousins who probably drove him crazy! I will always remember him as a young man who loved life and cherished his family and friends. Our love to you all. Anne Barbour Austin, Tommy, Joshua & Seth.
Shawn was Evan’s Big Brother in Delta Chi. Evan was such a positive person…always waiting with a smile. Life is too short. God bless your family. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Evan,
You were an amazing person. You were one of the first people I met at ASU and you are one of the best that I met there. You were your own person and always the levelheaded one. I can’t think of my college experience without thinking of you. From our road trip to Greensboro my freshman year to trying to help you with the yardwork. Whether I was living next door to you or living one floor above you at the A Frame you were always an inspiration to strive harder at being a better person. You will never be replaced. I like to think I am a better person for knowing you.
Here’s to you E-Train. I know I will see you again.
I can only imagine what the family must be going thru now, but he was a great person and always willing to help out anyone whenever he could. I knew him thru Appalachian and Delta Chi. I will be sure to keep him and his family in our prayers. He will be deeply missed!
ITB,
Kevin Keziah
Dearest Janice,
My heart goes out to you. Evan was the ideal young man. I was blessed by knowing him. Please give my love to Carly.
Sincerely, Cindy Dotson
Evan~
I, along with all your family and friends, am heartbroken. As everyone remembers, you were a truly remarkable person and will always be remembered for your kindness, sincerity, and friendship.
May this be comforting to those who knew and loved you:
‘Tenderly…may time heal your sorrow, Gently…may friends ease your pain, Softly…may peace replace heartache, And may warmest memories remain.’
~Katie
To the family of Evan. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. This has come as a big shock to me, I cannot even imagine what you all must be going through. I knew Evan in college and had many fond memories of him. Evan was a wonderful person and a great friend who would do anything for you. He made an impact in my life and I know what a great loss anybody close to him is suffering. Stay strong through these trying times and know that there are many people praying for your family.
Evan was someone that I wish I had an opportunity to get to know much better. To all that knew him, he was a loyal friend that always acted with his heart. Evan is an inspiration for many and will be missed greatly. I am a better person from the chance to know him. Thank you and God bless your family.
I had the priviledge of knowing Evan throughout the entire time I was at App, but I was lucky enough to be able to spend a great deal of time with him at the A frame his last semester in Boone. Evan holds a spot in so many of my memories I can’t decide which is my favorite. Whether we were at the old house, the A frame, having a furniture bonfire, or at the Bob the Builder birthday party I tried to throw for his 23rd, he always had a smile and something worthwhile to say. Evan was such a special person and touched so many lives in so many different ways. He will truely be missed and loved forever. I’m just grateful I was able to spend the time I did with him and that despite losing him, we’ll always have the memories.
‘Death ends a life, not a relationship.’
To Evan’s Family,
I knew Evan through Delta Chi and Accounting classes, my wife knew him through Appalachian also. We took many road trips together; to Roanoke, Va. etc. He is a guy who can truely be proud of who he was, however unfortunate it is that he was taken so soon. Evan and his family are in our hearts and prayers.
Love,
Thomas & Laura Hockman
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
To Evan’s Family
Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Michael Lingle
Appalachian State University Delta Chi Alumni Board of Trustees
May God’s grace and peace be yours in abundance.
To all of Evans family members…I am so sorry to learn of your loss. This is never, ever easy but with time and family the pain will subside. Rejoice with the memories of Evan as he would want you to. God bless Evan and God bless the family.
Evan is in my thoughts every minute of every day. The only thing that is helping me is that Evan would not want me or anybody else to be upset. My best friend is gone on earth but not in my heart.
Evan you are truly missed and loved.
itb
John Privette
Janice and Curtis, We, as all were shocked and devastated to hear of Evans passing.Jim has many wonderful memories of your son, and the times they shared at YTL, he will be surely missed. May the Lord bless you and help you through this time of sorrow.
I am so terribly sorry about Evan. He was such a pleasure to have with us when he hung out with John. Evan was one of the most polite people I’ve ever met. He was always in a good mood and I remember how good he was in band too.
John is out of town now, but his thoughts are with you all. I want to offer my condolences and we’ll keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Marty & David Phillips
Our heartfelt sympathy is with you.
Evan will live on the hearts of those who knew him. May God comfort you.
I knew Evan in middle school through ASU. I am so very thankful that we had each other to make it through those tough first couple of months of college. He was always a joy to run into and catch up with. With his beautiful blue eyes and strong heart, Evan was always so giving, considerate, and gentle, and will be very missed. My heart goes out to you, his family and friends, who are missing him so dearly. May God bless you and keep you during this tough time.
Evan,
When I think of you, I remember all the good times we had together. Metallica, working on the Mustang, the electric fence, firewood, Evil Knievel, and all our beloved pets. To my friend and roommate, you were always there for me. I miss you so much and I will never forget you.
my deepest condolences to the family
Evan worked with me at j.c.penneys in Boone.I Loved him like A son.
please know you are in my prayers and thoughts.God Bless All Of You.
Cara JOHNSON
To the Evans Family,
I am so sorry to hear about Evan’s passing.My thoughts are with you through this sad and lonely time-Gabi
To the Evans Family,
I am so sorry to hear about Evan’s passing.My thoughts are with you through this sad and lonely time-Gabi
Evan,I dont think you knew just how special you were to me and how greatly I admired you. When I show your photo to my friends over here I describe you as the Yoda of Delta Chi; you were kind, honest, and very wise, but thankfully you were much better looking. I can honestly say that you were one of the main people who made having to leave NC such a heartache, and now I have to accept that I’ve lost you forever. You will always live on in my heart and I’ll never forget you mate. Take it easy up there.
Jimmy Skelton
Evan,
You were always so willing to assist a friend when needed. Without your help, I don’t think I could’ve gotten past my Accounting II exam. I will never forget your visit to Boone for December ’03 graduation. It was the last time I was able to see you, but I can’t remember a time that I saw you any happier. I don’t think the smile came off of your face for a second during the entire evening. This is what will come to mind whenever I think of you. And to your parents and family, I offer my deepest sympathies. Take comfort in the fact that Evan was a kind and honest gentleman of unwaivering character. You raised a son that would make any parent proud.
To Curtis and Janice,I am sorry to hear about Evan.He is really a fine young man.He carried himself with a professional manner at all times.One thing I will say is he is in a much better place.His smile will never be forgotten . God Bless you and your family.
To Evan’s Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Evan was a great person and a true gentleman. I had the chance to meet Evan in college and will never forget him. I will always remember his big smile and kind heart. May God comfort you all in your time of need.
Love,
John & Dori
Dear Ken, Carly, and Janice,
I only wish I could have been in Asheville with y’all today to celebrate Evan’s life. He was a well-raised, smart, and terrific young man. Although it has been a few years since I have seen him, this is still a great loss. He was always one of my favorite cousins.
My heart goes out to you in this time of grief. Just know that he is surely in a better place and he is being taken care of.
I love you all.
Love, Courtney
I had met Evan here at UBS Financial during an appt. he had with Jacques Fogel, and he was the sweetest person. I am so very sorry for the family’s loss.
Curtis and Janice,
I was/am terribly sorry to hear about Evan and know it is an unimagineable loss for you both. I can say without a doubt that I both liked and respected Evan. He stepped into a position that is hard enough to do without being ‘the owners’ kid’. He handled it and himself very well. He proved to everyone what kind of person he was — regardless of age, he was to be respected and admired- a testament to the kind of person he was. It could have conquered him, but he conquered it. I am very sorry for your loss but am glad that I can say I got to know Evan. He was a good kid w/ a better heart. God bless you and his entire family.
Dear Family,
I am very sorry for your loss. Evan will certainly be missed. I so wish that I could have been there to see you all. You all know that Evan was a very dear friend of mine and I will always keep him in my heart. His memory will go with us as I know that we have so many wonderful ones with him. I know that he is with the Lord now and watching over us, smiling that beautiful smile.
Sincerely,
Jordan Davis Brady
Janice and Curtis, We are sorry to hear about Evan. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Perry Christopher
I am sorry for your loss. Evan will surely be missed by all that knew him. Your family is in our thoughts.
Former YTL Driver
I knew Evan in high school and was in the band and marching band with him. He was a super nice guy and I always enjoyed being around him. I was so sad to hear about his death, but know that he is in a much better place than I am and know I will see him again some day. I pray for his family as they continue life without him.
I feel fortunate to have spent time in Boone with Evan a week before his death. He was a remarkable man and we’ll miss him tremendously.
Andy
I worked with Evan at Youngblood and I want you to know that I am eternaly gratefull for knowing him. He was the most well grounded man I ever knew. It is with great sorrow that he has passed, But know that he is by GOD’s side watching all of us and waiting to see us again. My prayers are with you and your family in your time of need. May GOD keep you in his hands and he in your heart.
Sincerley Bill Stone
My deepest sympathy to the family. Evan was truly a pleasure to know. I can not think of a better young man, that was well routed and grounded. May you and your family find peace in knowing that he is in the hands of God, watching over each of us. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Olivia Sanborn-Stone
I had the pleasure of going with Evan to a Delta Chi formal in Atlanta. I left that event spreading the word of how wonderful of a man that I thought Evan was. I immediately set him up with one of my sorority sisters. I have always admired Evan’s sincerity and thoughtfulness.
My true condolences to his family, fraternity brothers and friends that will continue to deal with the loss of Evan.
Dear Ken,
We were so saddened at work to hear about your loss of Evan. You have talked about your children with pride and joy many times, and I can only imagine the pain you are going through. Please know that you are in my thoughts, and as a parent, my heart aches for you.
Janis – T1 Fleet
Dear Ken,
I want to offer my condolences on the loss of your son, Evan. Please know that you and your family will be remembered by all of us in Fleet Service-Team 1, in our thoughts and prayers, at this most difficult time.
Lewis Davis
US Airways Fleet Service
Team 1
I was so sorry Ken to hear of your loss. The loss of a child is a devasatating circumstance that none of us can contemplate. You are in my prayers. Please let us know on the ramp if there is anything that we can do to help you.
Mary Winecoff (ramp-US Airways CLT)
So sorry to hear about Evan. He was a great guy, and I’m sorry I couldn’t be there to hear others remember him. Your family will be in my thoughts.
Dear Ken,
Please know that you are in the thoughts and prayers of many of Charlotte Fleet Service during this difficult time.
David (Whimpee) Wentz retired 01/01/04. Ken, so sorry to hear about your loss. Can’t imagine what you are going through. My condolences and prayers for your family. Regards, David
Dear Family,
Evan will certainly be missed. I am very sorry for your loss. Evan was a sweet, dear friend of mine and I will always keep him in my heart. I know that he is with the Lord now and watching over us.
Elisha E. Thompson
Dear Ken,
I wanted to take this opportunity to offer my condolences on the loss of your son Evan. I know that there is little that can be said to comfort you at this time. It is my prayer that you will experience the peace of God, which transcends all understanding. Ph 4:7 May God bless you and your family.
HI KEN,
WE WERE STUNNED TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR SON. I PRAY GOD WILL GIVE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY PEACE THROUGH THIS DIFFICULT TIME.
JOAN WILCOX FLEET SERVICE
I was fortunate to know Evan in high school many years ago. He was one of the nicest, most sincere individuals I have ever known. I am deeply saddened to hear about the loss of such a wonderful person. Your family will be in my prayers and may God be with you and comfort you during this time.
Nathan Buckner
Janice,
I am so sorry to hear about Evan and want you to know that I’m thinking of you and your family.
Sincerely,
Jo Ann
Evan was an outstanding young man. My sympathies to his family on this tragic loss. They will be in my prayers.
To Evan’s Family and Friends,
My sincerest condolences. Evan, you will be sorely missed.
ITB,
Patrick
Kenny:
I’m so sorry about your son.I just got a call from Cindy,telling me.just know we are all thinking and praying for you and your family at this time in your life.
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Evan was a sweet, wonderful, kind-hearted young man. He will certainly be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with your entire family.
You will be in my thoughts & prayers
Ken
I’m sorry for your lost, may God be with you & your family through this time
LOVE
ROBIN WEBSTER
I’m so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with all of your family and friends.
Hey Kenny,My thoughts and prayers are with you through this rough time.I never met Evan but I know in my heart he is with God.Know that and always remeber he is in a better place.My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.May you find peace and comfort knowing he was very much loved, and know he will be miss by alot of friends and family.
Love Cindy
Evan,
You were my first love. I miss you.
Leigh Anne