In Memory of Joan Behr Evans

Obituary

Joan Behr Evans
Whitesboro, NY / Old Forge, NY

Joan (Behr) Evans of Whitesboro, New York, and Old Forge, New York, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2026 surrounded by family. She was born in Utica, New York, on September 14, 1932, to Clarence and Lillian (Martin) Behr, and lived a life centered on faith, family, humble strength and care for others. 

Joan grew up in Utica and attended Utica Catholic Academy. She married the love of her life, Richard “Dick” Evans, and together they built a home and raised five sons. In everything she did, Joan had a strong resolve with a keen sense of humor which enabled her to be the steady force at the center of the family. She was always the first to roll up her sleeves to get any job done. She managed not only the family but also supported Dick in his accounting business. 

Joan’s strong Christian faith was evidenced to all by her many acts of devotion and service to others. She was deeply involved in her church which included bible studies and prayer groups. 

She also dedicated more than 20 years as a volunteer at the Presbyterian Home, where she quietly served others by helping residents.

Joan found joy in music, friendship and golf. She loved to sing, whether with the Utica Chorale or with friends at the Back Door in Old Forge. She was an avid golfer at Thendara Golf Club and went on many golf trips with Dick. 

Joan cherished her time in the Adirondacks in Old Forge at the family camp that Dick, Joan and the family built.  Countless memories were made there with family and friends, and the legacy she and Dick created will remain in the hearts of many. 

She is survived by her five sons, Steven (Melanie) Evans; Gary (Raechel) Evans; Daniel Evans; Gregory (Denyse) Evans; and Timothy Evans; her seven grandchildren, Adam (Julie) Evans; Brian Evans; Nicole Evans; Emily Evans (Alex Reynoso); Christopher Evans; Matthew (Shaye) Evans; and Julia Evans; her three great-grandchildren, Paisley, Graham and Brynn Evans, and her extended family and friends who will remember her warmth, strength, and quiet grace. 

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Richard Evans, her parents Clarence F. and Lillian (Martin) Behr, and her siblings Marion (Behr) Edick, Dorothy (Behr) Sprague, Helen (Behr) Wilson, Paul Behr, Francis Behr, Joseph Behr.  

Calling hours will be on Friday from 4-6 PM at Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, 13 Oxford Rd., New Hartford. The funeral will be Saturday at 9:30 AM at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 16 Park Ave., Whitesboro.

Contributions in Joan’s’ memory can be made to Catholic Charities of Oneida/Madison Counties or St. Bartholomew’s Food Pantry of Old Forge.

Online messages of sympathy may be left at: www.fwefh.com

Joan lived a life of quiet strength and deep devotion. Her legacy lives on in the family she raised, the faith she carried, and the love she gave so freely.