DENNIS PAUL EVANS
AUGUST 4, 1955 – DECEMBER 11, 2017
On behalf of Dennis, our family would like to say a little more than what an obituary might say. Dennis was misunderstood by many and we owe it to him to help people truly understand the wonderful and special soul he really was. Dennis had brain damage from a severe attack of Asthmatic Bronchitis at the age of 7 months. From a high fever and lack of oxygen, he developed a spot on his brain that impaired his motor, talking, and walking skills. This led to a seizure disorder. Dennis went to The Gateway School in Orlando for the handicap. While there he learned to read, write, and a small amount of math. In 1970, he left from the Gateway School so he could attend Apopka Memorial High School. Dennis graduated in 1974 from AMHS. In high school he was ‘Team Manager’ for the Blue Darter football team. This was his passion in high school. It wasn’t easy for Dennis, being taunted and teased by some, but he did what made him happy. Getting his drivers license was an important part of his life. This gave him a certain freedom. He worked in the plant nursery industry and even took a class in horticulture. He completed his course at Lake Sumter Community College. As the years progressed, Dennis started having more seizures. They would come on when he relaxed in his recliner or went to bed. The seizures eventually got worse, and he would have them during the daytime too. After working with Evans Nursery, Dennis worked with Winn Dixie and Publix. He was able to secure a job at a Publix within walking distance from his home. Dennis chose to ride his 3-wheel bike to work because he had given back his drivers license by this time. Dennis loved his job. Dennis was encouraged to stay in the work place for his own good in order to lead as normal a life as possible. This wasn’t always possible. The stress of a child living in a man’s body and taking the responsibility of an adult was taking its toll on Dennis. Just a few years ago, Dennis decided to stop working. It was discovered that more rest and less stress was better for his body. This was a hard decision but a necessary one. Dennis was not able to see the people like he did when working; he wasn’t able to cut up and laugh like he did while working. This was extremely hard on him. Dennis was a listener of Country Music. He loved to listen to Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton. Ray Stevens made him laugh. To smile, laugh, and cut up gave him much pleasure. He did not meet a stranger. If you had the true pleasure of knowing Dennis, you knew the smiles and laughter he gave away. We know he brought smiles to your face. Dennis was a member of First Baptist Church of Apopka. He was a Christian. He loved being a part of church and going to church. Dennis liked to listen to the Bible on tape. He was an usher at First Baptist and loved to greet the people. Dennis loved life and he really loved people. His greatest sorrow was not being understood and appreciated for being himself. No one deserves to feel this way, and it did sadden him. Dennis is free. He is free from any sadness he felt. Whatever burdened Dennis, it is no more. When the last white feather was put into his wings, Dennis flew to the heavens. God took Dennis to His home. Dennis is safe in the hands of Jesus. The songs you hear today have special meaning to us (the family). ‘Somebody Ought to Testify’ was a favorite of Dennis’ and felt appropriate to include in his service. Dennis, we know you’re dancing in the sky, and we know you’re singing in the angel’s choir. We know the angels know what they have (you). It’s got to be a little nicer in heaven since you arrived.
You will be missed. You will always be loved. You’ll never be forgotten. Rest in Peace Dennis.