Evelyn Smith was born on April 6, 1953, in Meridian, Oklahoma, to John and Erma Lee (Love) Smith. She was the sixth born of nine children. The family relocated to Blythe, California, when she was a young child. Evelyn accepted Jesus Christ under the leadership of Reverend Eugene McConnell and was an active member of St. Paul Baptist Church. She participated in church programs, Jr. Choir, Baptist Training Union, and was a member of the NAACP Chapter.

Evelyn attended Felix J. Appleby Elementary School, Blythe Middle School, and graduated from Palo Verde High School in 1971. While attending high school, she was involved in the Black Student Union, played volleyball, and participated in the Girls Athletic Association. She also played in the Joe Wine Community Softball league.

After graduation, Evelyn worked various jobs, including Sears, the medical offices of Dr. Flores and Dr. Slater, and Palo Verde Hospital. She started a 24-year career with the California Department of Corrections in October 1997, as an Office Assistant in Central Records and retired as a Case Records Analyst on March 26, 2021.

In late October 1980, Evelyn met Danny Ray Butler, Sr., a man who would always be by her side. A beautiful daughter, Danielle Rene Butler, came with him, whom she loved as her own. Seven years later, in October of 1987, she gave birth to adorable twin boys, Danny Ray Jr. and Darnell Ryan Butler. Evelyn continued to blend her family in 2016 and adopted three children, Aiden, Anthony, and Caylee Smith.

Evelyn loved relaxing with a good book, playing slots at the casino, dancing, and hanging out with family and friends. She also enjoyed baking sugar drop cookies and cakes for family, friends, and co-workers for special occasions or the holidays.

On September 7, 2023, with both sons by her side, Evelyn received her wings and was called home to walk with angels.

Evelyn is survived by sons, Danny Ray Butler, Jr. (Cynthia) and Darnell Ryan Butler (Monique) of Blythe, CA, Aiden Smith and Anthony Smith of Murrieta, CA; daughters Danielle Rene Butler of Glendale, AZ, Caylee Smith of Blythe, CA; sisters Margaret Thompson (Albert) of Atlanta, GA, Ruby Cordova (Alex) of Blythe, CA, Lorene Parker of Los Angeles, CA, Sherri Hatchett (Kevin) of Winchester, CA, Teresa Smith of Blythe, CA; brothers John Smith Jr. and Jerry Smith of Blythe, CA; and several grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. Last but certainly not least, Uncles Augustus "Jr." (Linda) Love of Blythe, CA, and Alvin Love Sr. of Guthrie, OK.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents, John and Erma Lee (Love) Smith; sister, Charlene Henderson; grandmother, Beatrice Love; grandfather, Launzy Love; uncles, Calvin Love, Robert Love, Sr., Simmie Love; and aunts, Alreece Luke and Minnie Harton.

As we say goodbye to Evelyn today, let us all remember the love, laughter, and precious moments we shared with her. The memories of her love will forever live in our hearts.

Services will be held at Frye Chapel on Friday, October 20th with viewing starting at 9:00 a.m. and funeral services beginning at 10:00 a.m.  Burial will take place immediately after at Palo Verde Cemetery.