Joseph James Evans

Departed this life January 17, 2014. Joseph James Evans, age 97, of Richmond. Between 1939 and 1965, Joe Evans performed with some of America’s greatest musicians such as Lionel Hampton, Louis Armstrong, Jimmy Lunceford, Charlie Parker, and Freddie Mitchell. He also played with vocalists including Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Mahalia Jackson, Sarah Vaughan, Ruth Brown and Harry Belafonte. In 1961, he founded Carnival Records. He recorded and produced more than 30 solo artists and groups. He is preceded in death by his wife, Anna Moore Evans. He is survived by one son, Thomas James Evans; two great grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews and cousins; and other relatives and friends. Remains rest at Joseph Jenkins Jr. Funeral Home, 2011 Grayland Avenue. The family will receive friends at 10am Thursday at Riverview Baptist Church, 2604 Idlewood Avenue followed by funeral services at 11am. Dr. Stephen Hewlett(pastor) off. Interment Dale Memorial Park.