Ashlee Evans

FORT MEADE - Ellen Ashlee Evans, a beloved elementary music teacher, passed away on January 26, 2024, at the age of 40. Born on September 27, 1983, she leaves behind a legacy of passion for music and a genuine love for those around her.  Ashlee dedicated the last five years of her career to Lewis Anna Woodbury Elementary School in Fort Meade, where she touched the lives of countless students. Her commitment to nurturing young minds through music was unwavering, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of her students and colleagues alike.

      Born in Wilmington, North Carolina and raised in LaGrange, Georgia, Ashlee graduated from LaGrange High School in 2001. She furthered her education by earning a bachelor’s degree in music education from Columbus State University in Georgia. Demonstrating her thirst for knowledge and dedication to her craft, Ashlee went on to earn a master’s degree in Elementary Education from Southeastern University in Lakeland.

      While Ashlee was known for her quiet demeanor, she had an incredible ability to form deep connections with others. She cherished the company of loved ones and took pleasure in making new friends. But it was music that truly captured her heart. Whether singing or playing an instrument, Ashlee found solace and joy in the melodies that filled her life. Ashlee also was a lifelong Girl Scout and enjoyed the last five years as a Girl Scout leader with Troop 5203 here in Fort Meade. Although her time with us was far too brief, she leaves behind lasting memories and an enduring spirit.

      Ashlee was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents Jesse H. Evans, Sr. and Margaret Ann Coleman Evans, her maternal grandparents Ellon Brinkley Black and Elizabeth Josephine Ruble Black, as well as her uncle John Belcher.

      She will be remembered fondly by her surviving family: her parents Jeffrey L. Evans and Judith Black Evans; her sister Miranda Jane Evans-Fernandez and husband Carlos; nieces and nephews Penelope LeeAnn Hobbs, Hailey Jane Hobbs, Victor Gonzalez-Evans, Ian Fernandez-Evans, and great-niece Everleigh Jane Hobbs; aunts and uncles Bill Black and Pam, Kathy Belcher, Bobby Black and Debbie, Cyndi Lewis and Steve, Joy Taylor, and Kay Dawson; numerous cousins including her favorite girl cousins Laura and Stephanie.

      A Memorial Service to celebrate Ashlee's life will be held at 4:00 p.m. on February 22, 2024, at Hancock Funeral Home in Fort Meade.  

      In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to support music education programs in honor of Ashlee Evans. Her passion for music will continue to inspire future generations to pursue their love for this art form.

      Ashlee Evans' departure from this world has left a void that cannot be filled. However, her spirit will live on through the bright melodies she shared with those around her and the knowledge she imprinted upon young minds.

      Hancock Funeral Home, Fort Meade, FL 863-285-8171