Evelyn C. Ray Bacote, 84 of Florence, South Carolina transitioned on November 14, 2020 peacefully at home. Evelyn was born on February 2, 1936 to the late Wesley Francis and Corneila Queen Ray in Long Branch, New Jersey. She lived and completed her educational studies in Eatontown, NJ, she then moved to New Haven, CT, where she resided for several years. While living in New Haven she was employed at Frist Bank. It was during this time that she married Jefferson Meekins, and to this union they had 2 daughters. She was a long time standing member of Christ Chapel New Testament Church in New Haven, CT under the leadership of the late Reverend William M. Philpot.

Evelyn was employed for the District One Educational System as a teacher’s aide when she moved to Florence, SC, until the time of her retirement. She was a member of First Church of God Lee Street, she served as the Vice Chairperson of the Trustee Board and enjoyed working in many areas of ministry, until the time of her death.

Evelyn was the founder of the Hurley Family Reunion. She once said, “That her grandfather came to her in a dream and said family” she understood that to mean to keep the family together. She did this for many years.

Evelyn enjoyed shopping and was a sharp dresser. She will be remembered as a very

independent, strong and self-sufficient person. She loved the Lord, her family and will be truly missed.

Evelyn leaves to mourn two daughters Deidre Moore and Mala Meekins of New Haven, CT, three grandchildren Lynell Graham (Zacarri), Rebekah Moore, and Seth Moore all of New Haven, CT. Three great grandchildren Adaiah Moore, Zacai Graham, and Curtis Benson. Three sisters Laura Meekins of Hamilton, NJ, Mary Towler of Eatontown, NJ, and Mildred Butler (Karle) of Smyrna, DE, her longtime friend of 63 years Joan Jackson, dear friend of 60 years Eddie Swint and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

She was predeceased by her two brothers Wesley Francis Ray, Jr and Joseph J. Ray and her son-in-law Curtis L. Moore.

Evelyn was loved by many and will be greatly missed.