Jennifer Evans

Jennifer L. Evans, affectionately known to everyone as “Cookie,” passed away peacefully on June 21, 2026, surrounded by the family and loved ones who meant the world to her.

Born on May 20, 1958, in Chicago, Illinois, Cookie was the beloved daughter of Edgar Walker and Rosey Evans, both of whom preceded her in death.

Although she was not the oldest child in her family, she naturally assumed the role of “the boss” among her brothers and sisters—a title she carried with pride, humor, love, and unwavering

devotion to her family.

Cookie was a favorite to many and truly loved by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She possessed a rare gift for being exactly what someone needed in any given moment. Whether offering guidance, comfort, laughter, or simply her presence, she made everyone around her feel seen and loved.

As her nephew, Dameion, so beautifully expressed:

"She was whatever you needed her to be. She was your mother, sister, auntie, cousin, friend, confidant, babysitter, cook, comedian, and a FOR SURE bingo partner."

Those words perfectly captured how she was truly one of a kind. Cookie often said she was a “soldier,” as she was from Chicago, and had to be tough. She carried that strength throughout her life and instilled it in her children and grandchildren.

She fought bravely until the very end, reminding all who loved her what true strength, resilience, and unconditional love look like. While we grieve her physical absence, we also celebrate the gift of her life. We take comfort in knowing that love does not end with death. Her memory will continue to be a blessing, her spirit will remain with us, and her legacy of faith, kindness, and compassion will live on through all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

Cookie’s greatest joy in life was her family—and we must not forget BINGO.

She leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory. Her devoted daughters: TataNina, LaShante, and LaTasha (Craig Sr.); her beloved grandchildren:

Antwanina, Alexis, Craig Jr., Ashanti, Na’Jah, Ashari,

Antonio, Corrion, and Aniyah. Her precious great-grands:

Ary’e, Ary’l, Ta’yor, Craig III, and baby De’Asia (born May 28, 2026)

She is also remembered by her sisters:

Dana Lynn, Lisa, Latrice, and Andrea; her brothers, Leroy, Tyrone, Edgar Jr., and Edo; her beloved aunt & uncles,

Barbara Springfield, Rev. James Springfield, and

Tommie Lawrence.

… and her special girlfriends, Josie, Yanna, and Tiffany.

Cookie was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Edgar Walker and Rosey Evans; her brothers, Eric “Ricky” Evans, Curtis Evans, and Terrell Walker; and her longtime partner, Ernie Lane. While her family deeply mourns her passing, they find comfort in knowing she has been reunited with those who welcomed her home.

In addition to those named above, Cookie leaves behind a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were forever enriched by her love, laughter, and unwavering presence. Her memory will be cherished always, and her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.