Evelyn Horton Reaves

Evelyn Horton Reaves, affectionately known as Evie, passed away peacefully on the morning of August 13, 2025, at her home in Chicago, Illinois. Evelyn was born on February 24,1940 to Hartrict Horton and Edna Mae Wayne in St. Louis, Missouri. She was raised by her aunt, Hazel Jones, after the untimely death of her mother, Edna Mae.

In 1957, Evelyn graduated from Vashon High School in St. Louis, and continued her education at Lincoln University Missouri, where she received a Bachelor's degree in English (1961). She then went on to earn a Master of Science degree in Education from Indiana University Bloomington (1970). Evelyn continued her love for education by completing additional post-graduate work in Counseling and Guidance, and Psychology at Purdue University (1971-1976), and Doctoral studies in Counseling Psychology at Loyola University Chicago (1977-1985).

In 1961, Evelyn moved to Mexico, Missouri, after marrying Ezell Reaves. The couple lived in Mexico, Missouri, until 1962, when they relocated to Gary, Indiana, where they raised their four children. Evelyn spent the entirety of her career in the field of education. She was passionate about the education and edification of children and youth, as evidenced by her serving as a teacher and guidance counselor for more than 25 years in the Gary Community School District. Evelyn worked at several schools throughout the district, including Edison High School, West Side High School, Horace Mann High School, William A. Wirt, and Nobel Elementary School. Evelyn's love and advocacy for children led her to her working at Gary's Educational Talent search and Youth Services Bureau as a counselor of disadvantaged youth.

Throughout her life, Evelyn encouraged students to pursue their dreams, no matter how small or how lofty. She was honored for her community contributions as one of America's Most Outstanding African-American Women by the African-American Alliance in 1989.

Evelyn grew up attending church regularly, and her strong faith in the Lord led her to St. Augustine's Episcopal Church in Gary in 1962. As a member of St. Augustine's, she served as an Acolyte, Acolyte trainer, Lay Reader, and Lay Eucharistic Minister. She was a faithful member of St. Augustine's until her death.

Evelyn had a warm, loving, and inviting personality that drew people in naturally. She was intelligent, clever, charming, comical, and quick-witted. Among the things that Evelyn enjoyed in life were cooking, reading, swimming, dancing, listening to music, going to the theatre, fine dining, traveling, and most importantly, spending time with her family. Evelyn cherished spending time with her grandchildren during the summer and holidays. She also enjoyed socializing and never wanted to miss a good party or celebration. She thoroughly enjoyed entertaining at her home on the shores of Lake Michigan in Gary, Indiana. Evelyn was an excellent hostess, always anticipating the needs of her quests. Her house was open to everyone, whether for a party or a night's lodging.

Evelyn was a study in perpetual motion who did not sit still in retirement. After retirement, she taught etiquette classes to young ladies and gentlemen, volunteered for the Urban League of Northwest Indiana, and was a tax preparer part-time at H&R Block. Evelyn enjoyed spending time with the "Pool Pals" at the YMCA of Northwest Indiana, and of course, spending time with family.

Evelyn is survived by her loving children, Evette N. Colston, Edmund H. (Trina) Reaves, and Erica L. Reaves; forever cherished and remembered by her five grandchildren, Tiffany N. Colston, Amber N. Reaves, Aaron M. (Renee) Reaves, Anthony G. Reaves, and Raymond A.(Morgan) Brents; seven great-grandchildren, Naomi E. Reaves, Melodie S. Reaves, Isaiah L. Reaves, Jeremiah M. Reaves, Laila A. Reaves, Kameron X. Reaves, Ezra A. Brents, and brother, Starling Horton. Her memory continues to live on through a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her aunt, Hazel Jones; ex-husband, Ezell Reaves; her son, Eric Reaves; siblings, Mary Reynolds, Linda Gipson, Betty Hudson, Frederick Horton, Louise Lee, and Leathell  "Ted" Horton; and special friend, Zellaner Smith.

The family would like to thank everyone for their thoughts, prayers, and support during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Heart Association. 

 Visitation Tuesday, August 19, 2025, 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. at Ridgelawn Funeral Home 4201 West Ridge Road Gary, Indiana 46408 with Memorial Services Wednesday, August 20, 2025, 10:00 a.m. at St. Augustine's Church 2425 West 19th Avenue Gary, Indiana 46404.

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