Evelyn Marguerite Craig

Evelyn Marguerite Craig, born on April 18, 1934, in Washington, DC, peacefully went to be with her Lord and Savior on March 26, 2026. Evelyn was a woman who didn’t set out to be heralded but found herself as such many times throughout her life.

Evelyn broke barriers as the first black woman to work for the Washington DC Post Office, where she shared her days working alongside actor Sherman Hemsley and played enthusiastically on the office softball team. Later in life, proving that you’re never too old to learn, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Temple University in Philadelphia, PA, while in her 50s.

Evelyn was a talented musician with perfect pitch and who was never without a tune in her heart and her head. She played with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and performed under the revered conductor, Robert Shaw. Evelyn also generously shared her gift through piano lessons and frequently played for many churches throughout her life. Her favorite song, “Lord I’m Available,” resonated deeply with her big heart for Jesus, family, and friends.

Her devotion to faith was evident in how she ensured her children attended church, reinforcing a foundation rooted in spirituality, community, and love of God. She loved playing the piano for her church and there was many a congregant who sat enrapt by her playing as her fingers danced nimbly over the ivories in any number of churches. Evelyn knew that the music preached the Word as much as the Pastor.

Evelyn was also known for her vibrant spirit beyond her professional and musical accomplishments. She was a contestant on popular TV shows including “Name That Tune,” where she won a 52-day cruise to South America along with other prizes, and “Wheel of Fortune.” She always carried herself with poise and grace, both in front of the cameras as well as in her everyday life.

Evelyn is survived by her beloved children: Tanya Bell of Douglasville, Georgia; Nathaniel Edward Brown of Douglasville, Georgia; Karen Elaine Gunther (Robert) of South Boston; and Derek Hamilton Bennett (Stephanie) of Atlanta, Georgia. She delighted in the company of eight grandchildren— Lezlie Roberts, Howard Carson, Amanda Brown, Brittany Gunther, Ryann Gunther, Jalyn Bennett, Asa Bennett, and Caitlyn Bennett —as well as seven great-grandchildren and thirteen great-great-grandchildren. A host of nieces and nephews. Their lives are a lasting testament to her nurturing spirit and enduring strength.

Evelyn was predeceased by one great-grandchild, Jada Roberts; her parents, William Braddock Craig and Evelyn Powell Craig; and ten siblings, whose memories she carried with her always.

A funeral service to honor Evelyn’s extraordinary life will be held at Beth Car Baptist Church, April 11, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. with the Rev. Thad Decker officiating. The family will receive friends on April 11, one hour prior to the service at the church.

For memorials, please consider Paws & Claws (SPCA), P.O. Box 14, South Boston, VA 24592.

Online condolences may be directed to www.powellfuneralinc.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Powell Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1603 Wilborn Ave., South Boston, VA 24592.