Mary Ann Evans, 65, of Hickory, passed away on Monday, October 12, 2026 at Catawba Valley Medical Center, following a period of declining health.

Mary was born July 12, 1961, in Catawba County, to the late Charles Ross Evans and Joyce Pitman Evans. She was a member of Henry River Baptist Church and worked as a seamstress. For twenty-five years, Mary courageously battled breast cancer without ever losing heart. Even on her most difficult days, her focus remained on caring for others, and she constantly checked in to see how she could help. Her face was rarely without a warm smile.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her brother, Shelby Evans.

She is survived by her son, Chuck Willis and wife Marki; brother, Craig Evans; nephew, Cliff “Wizard” Evans and wife Andrea; and great-niece, Sara Evans.

A funeral service will be held on Sunday, October 18, 2026 at 3:00 PM in the Chapel of Heritage Funeral Service with Pastor Allen Huffman officiating. Interment will follow at Henry River Baptist Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends prior to the service on Sunday from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Heritage Funeral Service.

Memorials may be made to Henry River Baptist Church at 4095 Henry River Rd., Hickory, NC 28602.

Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory in Valdese is assisting the family.