Evonne Frances (Shank) Showalter, born in 1937, passed from this earthly life on October 27, 2026. She leaves behind a legacy of extraordinary kindness, unwavering faith, and a remarkable ability to make everyone she encountered feel accepted, valued, and loved.

Evonne spent her life loving and caring for her family and the communities she called home. Born in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, she met the love of her life, Gerald, while attending Eastern Mennonite High School. They married on October 21, 1955, and began their life together on a farm in Linville, Virginia, where they welcomed their two eldest daughters, June and JoAnn. Gerald's alternative service assignment with the Virginia Department of Highways led the young family on a journey across Virginia, making homes in several communities along the way. While living in Barhamsville, they welcomed their third daughter, Joyce. The family eventually settled in Newport News, where the birth of their son, Jonathan, completed their family.

Faith was the foundation of Evonne's life, and love was the way she lived it. She possessed an extraordinary capacity to love unconditionally, extending grace and kindness without judgment or reservation. Her family experienced this love most intimately, from her parents and brother's family to her beloved husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. As her family grew through marriages and partnerships, each person was welcomed into her ever-expanding circle of love. But Evonne's affection was never reserved for family alone. Friends, neighbors, fellow church members, and even those she encountered only briefly were recipients of her genuine care and compassion. With Evonne, there was always room for one more.

Throughout her life, Evonne quietly and faithfully served the communities of which she was a part, particularly Huntington Mennonite Church in Newport News. One of her many acts of service was keeping track of attendance on Sunday mornings. Not to account for who had failed to attend, but rather to ensure that those who were absent received a church bulletin in the mail, keeping them connected and gently reminding them that they had been missed. Her thoughtfulness became so dependable that when Evonne inadvertently overlooked someone's absence, it was not uncommon for that person to contact her, just to make sure everything was all right! It was a simple gesture, but one that perfectly captured her genuine concern for others and her belief that everyone mattered.

Although Evonne will be remembered for her gentle spirit, endless grace, and unconditional love, those who knew her best will also remember a delightful sense of humor and a mischievous streak that could bring a smile to almost any situation. She was a woman of God, a person of extraordinary grace, and, when the opportunity presented itself, a cheerful purveyor of mischief.

Evonne was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gerald; son-in-law Jake Hartzler, her parents, Wade and Vada Shank; and her brother, Orval Shank. She is survived by her daughters, June (Gary), JoAnn (Neil), and Joyce; and her son, Jonathan (Becky); her grandchildren, Lauren (Brian), Andrew (Jen), Sarah (GJ), James, Myron (Kel), Luke (April), Noah (Isabelle), and Kylie; and six great-grandchildren, Branson and Jackson; John; Taylor, Finley, and Sterling. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Dorothy Shank, and her three sons and their families.

In her final years, Evonne and her family were blessed by the compassion and dedication of many caregivers. To attempt to name each one would risk unintentionally overlooking someone, something that would have deeply troubled Evonne. So instead, her family simply says Thank You. Thank you to everyone who cared for her, comforted her, and helped make her days a little brighter. May the memories of your time with Evonne bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart, just as she brought to so many throughout her remarkable life.

Evonne’s funeral services will be held beginning at 11am on Saturday October 31st at Huntington Mennonite Church in Newport News. Following the service, attendees are encouraged to enjoy a light lunch and a time of sharing memories of Evonne. Evonne will be laid to rest in a private burial service at the Warwick River Mennonite Church Cemetery. In leu of flowers, Evonne would rather donations be made in her honor to Heifer International (www.heifer.org) or a charity of your choosing.