University Community Mourns Loss of Bob Evans

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Bob Evans

Bob Evans, longtime supporter and friend of the University of Arkansas, died at his home Sunday, Nov. 27, at the age of 90.

Evans and his wife, Sunny, of Hot Springs have created a lasting legacy at the University of Arkansas, particularly at the Fay Jones School of Architecture’s Garvan Woodland Gardens. The Evanses’ contributions helped complete the sanctuary within the Anthony Chapel and provided funding for the Evans Groom’s Quarters, the Evans Celebration Garden and the Evans Children’s Adventure Garden.

“Bob will be greatly missed by our university family,” said Chancellor G. David Gearhart. “His service as a volunteer and his commitment to improving the university and Garvan Woodland Gardens have truly made a difference for students and community members throughout the state. He was a good friend, and our hearts go out to Sunny and the rest of their family during this time.”

This past spring, the Evanses were recognized as Chancellor’s Medal recipients at the Towers of Old Main event. Evans served as a member of the University of Arkansas’ Campaign for the Twenty-First Century Steering Committee and as a member of the campaign’s Leadership and Principal Gifts Committee. He was a member of the university’s Board of Advisors and the Garvan Woodland Gardens Advisory Council. In addition to the Evanses’ impact on Garvan Woodland Gardens, gifts have also been designated toward establishing a scholarship in the department of music and an endowed Chancellor’s Scholarship. The couple also supported the Arkansas Alumni Association Cornerstone Fund to endow a maintenance fund for the Janelle Y. Hembree Alumni House. The Evanses are recognized as Towers of Old Main, a society for supporters who have given at least $100,000 to the university.

Evans was a longtime supporter of the Razorback Foundation and a devout Razorback fan, following them wherever they played across the country. He often said though he was born in Chicago, he got to Arkansas as soon as he could. In 2008, he was named an honorary Arkansas alumnus.

Evans received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Oklahoma. He was involved in the oil and gas industry as an independent oil and gas producer and petroleum geologist.