Helen Ida Watkins Evans, 81, of Queens, NY died on Thursday, January 22nd at South Nassau Hospital, New York. She was born in New Bedford on March 19, 1922 to Thomas Steven Watkins and Mary "Bebe" (Peters) Watkins. Helen was the wife of the late Thomas J. Evans.
During the big band era Helen sang with such well renowned band leaders as Duke Oliver, Phil Edmond and Lionel Hampton. Her friends reminisce of the time they went to Boston to see her perform with Lionel Hampton at the Tic Toc Club. She also performed at Lincoln Park with Phil Edmond.
Helen later graduated from Apex Beauty School and went on to practice her trade as a hairdresser.
On October 11, 2003 Helen received Jesus Christ as her personal savior.
Helen is survived by her 3 daughters, Cynthia and her husband, Stephen Hunter, of Baldwin, NY, Joan and her husband, Pastor Floyd Johnson of Baldwin, NY and Donna and her husband, Raymond Febres, of Hempsted, NY. She has six grandchildren-Jason, Matthew and Alexis Hunter, Joshua Johnson, Ian and Noah Febres-along with a sister-in-law and brother-in-law, nephews, nieces, cousins, godchildren and a host of friends. Her obituary would be amiss if her beloved comadres Irene Livramento of New Bedford and Pat Sylvia of Queens, NY were not included.
Helen was the sister of the late Thomas "Bubber" Watkins.
Although Helen spent most of her life in New York City, her first home was always New Bedford. She desired to be brought home to New Bedford for her final resting place.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend her Funeral Services in the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New BedfordMonday, January 26th at 7 PM and Tuesday, January 27th at 10 AM.
Visiting hours Monday, January, 26th from 4-7 PM.
Interment St. John's Cemetery.