Evelyn Joyce Duty, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, peacefully departed life on October 2, 2024, at the age of 89. Born on March 17, 1935, Evelyn was a beacon of kindness and faith, who dedicated her life to serving the Lord and caring for her family.
Evelyn married her cherished husband whom she called "honey", Harley Earl Duty, Sr., with whom she shared 55 beautiful years of love and devotion. Their partnership was a testament to enduring affection and commitment, cherished by all who knew them. Though she mourned his passing, Evelyn's spirit continues to inspire those she leaves behind.
Evelyn is survived by her loving daughter, Wanda Kelley and her husband Leon of Silsbee, Texas; sons, Harley Duty, Jr. and his wife Janet of Hardin, Texas, Coy Dale Duty, Sr. and his wife Debra of Batson, Texas, Mark David Duty and his wife Melita of Liberty, Texas, and Samuel Aaron Duty and his wife Lisa of Mont Belvieu, Texas. She also leaves behind her dear sisters, Billie Virginia Walston of Vidor, Texas and Alice Carolyn Bandeaux of Vidor, Texas. Her legacy lives on through her 13 adoring grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces and nephews who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.
Throughout her life, Evelyn expressed her deep love for God and her community. She could often be found playing the piano during Sunday church services, a role she embraced with an open heart. Her musical talent not only brightened the sanctuary but also brought joy to her family and friends. A devoted seamstress, Evelyn also embraced quilting later in life, teaching herself this intricate art in her 70s, finding solace and creativity in every stitch.
Evelyn's personality radiated warmth; she was always willing to help those in need, offering a listening ear or a helping hand, constantly surrounded by a ring of prayer and love. Her nurturing spirit and unyielding faith left an indelible mark on family and friends alike.
She is preceded in death by her cherished husband, Harley Earl Duty, Sr., and her beloved parents, Edith Caruthers Riley and Clyde E. Hobbs.
Evelyn Joyce Duty's life was a remarkable tapestry woven with love, faith, and service. Her inviting smile and the music she shared will be profoundly missed but never forgotten. As we gather to honor her memory, we celebrate the life she lived—a life rich in love and guided by faith.
Visitation will be held on October 7, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Faith & Family Funeral Services in Batson, Texas. A funeral service will take place on October 8, 2024, at 10:00 AM at the same location officiated by Pastor Bill Campbell, followed by her burial at Guedry Cemetery in Batson.
Honoring Evelyn as pallbearers are Adam Seth Kelley, Chad Allen Duty, Coy Dale Duty, Jr., Jonathan David Duty, Lane Martin Duty and Benjamin Stephen Duty. Honorary pallbearers are Josh Welch, Christopher Micah Kelley, and Jason Daniel Kelley.