Chattanooga Remembers LaToya Renee Sivels-Evans

News Summary

Chattanooga mourns the loss of LaToya Renee Sivels-Evans, a beloved member of the community who passed away at the age of 43. Known for her active involvement in local organizations and her dedication to family and friends, LaToya’s impact will be felt by many. Her legacy of compassion and love will live on through her children, stepchildren, and a wide circle of friends. A farewell service is planned at Taylor Funeral Home for the community to pay their respects.

Chattanooga Mourns the Loss of LaToya Renee Sivels-Evans

It’s a heavy heart that the community of Chattanooga is coming together to remember a beloved resident, LaToya Renee Sivels-Evans, who sadly passed away at the young age of 43 on January 15, 2025. She died in a local hospital, leaving a void in the lives of many who knew and loved her.

A Community Pillar

LaToya was a proud product of the Chattanooga Public Schools, where she attended Brainerd High School. It’s often said that a person’s school years shape who they become, and LaToya was no exception. She blossomed into a vibrant member of the community, becoming active in church and various local organizations.

She was a devoted member of the Greater Nazarene Baptist Church, where her spirit uplifted many. LaToya also lent her support to the Sickle Cell Warriors, a testament to her compassionate nature and desire to help others in need.

A Life Surrounding Family

LaToya’s family meant the world to her. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, DeWayne Lynnell Evans, Sr., and faced the loss of several treasured family members, including her grandfathers, Rudolph Foster, Sr. and Homer Sivels, and her sister, Malakia Sivels. The struggles of losing loved ones never overcame her; she always remembered their legacies.

She leaves behind a circle of family that will always cherish her memory. Her daughter, Taylor Davenport, continues the family line here in Chattanooga, while her stepdaughters, Makiyah (James) Evans in Raleigh, NC, and Jennifer Evans, along with her many stepsons who live locally, will carry forth her spirit. LaToya was also a proud grandmother to Ma’Kia, Ryder, Novah, Legend, and RyLiegh, bringing joy and laughter to her life.

Roots in Family and Friendship

LaToya’s parents, LaVonza (Curtis) Barnes and Andre (LaTina) Sivels, along with her grandmothers, including Daisy Foster and Sarah Sivels, remain part of her rich family history. The larger family tree branches out into numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and more—with countless connections in the Chattanooga area. She also had two godsons and a goddaughter who held a special place in her heart.

Friendship was an essential part of LaToya’s life, and her best friend and caregiver, Sha White, stood by her side through thick and thin, embodying what true companionship means. Her extended family of friends includes special mentions like Joanne McKibben and LaKesha Franklin, all part of a tapestry woven with love and support.

Final Farewell Plans

The community will have the opportunity to pay their respects as LaToya will lie in state on January 29, 2025, starting at 9 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. The funeral service will take place in the chapel at noon, with Pastor Maurice Gilchrist serving as the eulogist. A burial ceremony is planned at Chattanooga National Cemetery, providing a final resting place deserving of her graceful spirit.

LaToya Renee Sivels-Evans may have left us too soon, but her memory will forever linger in the hearts of those she touched. The giant impact she made, whether in her family, church, or personal network, serves as a reminder of how precious life can be. As Chattanooga mourns her loss, we also take the opportunity to celebrate her remarkable life and the love she shared.

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Additional Resources

• Chattanoogan: LaToya Renee Sivels-Evans
• Wikipedia: Chattanooga
• Taylor Funeral Home: LaToya Sivels-Evans
• Google Search: LaToya Renee Sivels-Evans
• Taylor Funeral Home: Dewayne Evans
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
• Chattanoogan: Community Mourns
• Google News: Chattanooga