Barney Ray Evans – age 72 of Mascot passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, January 3, 2024. He was born February 2,1951 in Knoxville, TN. Barney, a retired Southern Baptist pastor, dedicated his life to serving God and was especially devoted to his family, remaining very involved throughout his 15-year battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Barney is preceded in death by his mother, Sue (Roach) Evans and father, Fred Evans. Barney is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Deborah (Brasher) Evans; daughter, Shanda Keller (Sam); and son, Mark Evans (Leigh Ann). He was a doting grandfather to Justin (Kendyl), Jerry (Britany), Elizabeth, Isaac (Hannah), and Luke; and was blessed to be a great-grandfather to Harper, Hadley, and Ryleigh Kate. He is also survived by his brothers, Don (Von), Tony (Ginger), and Ben (Annie), as well as his stepmother, Ruby Evans. Barney had numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews who held a special place in his heart. Barney proudly served in the Tennessee Air National Guard, where he demonstrated unwavering dedication to his country and developed his life-long love for aviation as a crew chief with the 134th Air Refueling Wing. While serving, he received a Commendation Ribbon for meritorious service during Operation Creek Party. He was a graduate of Carson-Newman University where he obtained both an associate and a bachelor’s degree while working full-time. Accepting God’s call in 1981, Barney pastored several churches throughout East Tennessee during his 34 years as a minister of the Word. Family and friends are invited to attend the Receiving of Friends 12:00-3:00 PM at Roseberry Baptist Church, 2920 Roseberry Road, Mascot, TN 37806, on Saturday, January 6, 2024, followed immediately by the funeral service. The interment will be held privately for all family members at the conclusion of the funeral service. Barney will be laid to rest in Roseberry Cemetery and given veteran honors at the graveside. Pallbearers are Justin Mashburn, Jerry Mashburn, Elizabeth Keller, Isaac Keller, Luke Keller, and Sam Keller. Honorary Pallbearers are Mark Evans, Don Evans, Tony Evans, Ben Evans, Butch Brasher, Lonzo Brasher, Steve Brasher, and Chris Brasher. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation at parkinson.org or to the Carson-Newman Fund at cn.edu/giving/. Arrangements by Bridges Funeral Home, 5430 Rutledge Pike, 865-523-4999. www.bridgesfuneralhome.com