The Rev. Clay Evans, a beloved civil rights leader, gospel singer and pastor, died on Nov. 27, 2019. He was 94.
The Rev. Charles Jenkins posted news of Evans’ death on his social media platforms. Jenkins, who will be retiring as pastor of Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church on the South Side of Chicago, succeeded Evans in leadership at the church.
Evans was the founder of Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church and pastored there for 50 years. He was a prominent figure in the city of Chicago, a gospel singer whose music inspired and moved the masses.
He was also one of the first members of the clergy to embrace Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the civil rights leader’s visits to Chicago almost to the detriment of his church. He also partnered with Jesse Jackson to push the conversation of civil rights forward.
You can read Jenkins‘ full post as it appears on Instagram below:
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5YWne5ldmM/
Evans is survived by his wife of more than 70 years, Lutha Mae, four children, several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A daughter preceded him in death. A family member confirmed that Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church is planning to host visitation and funeral services on Dec. 6 and 7.
