The chapters of my life journey began on December 12, 1926 when I was born to Brooks Craven and Mattie Redic Carven. I was also welcomed by my brother, James Craven. Added to this family were my brother, William Craven and sister, Bama Craven.

I attended Upchurch Community School.

I was known to many as "Aunt Dathel" and "Granny".  And those that knew me knew I was a "Mess"!  I Loved Life!

I met Elzie Lee Evans and we were married on May 5, 1951.  Our family was completed with the union of three children, Junior L. Evans, Shirley J. Evans and Sandra K. Evans.

I was employed at various occupations such as picking cotton, domestic, factory and retired as a cook which was my passion, at Southwest Arkansas Development Center. After retirement, I volunteered as a foster grandparent at the Nevada County Recycling Center for 11 years.

At an early age, I united with the St. Luke AME Church. Later I was added to the Scott Street Church of Christ where I was an active member until failing health.

The joys of my life were fishing, cooking, listening to the "blues" and reminiscing the "good ole days", attending family gatherings and Newtown Neighborhood block parties.

On this journey I was stricken with Alzheimer disease which caused some dark days of forgetfulness but never too dark to dim my rainbow.  Thanks to many friends and loved ones that understood and supported me.

On June 17, 2016, in my 89th season, my earthly journey was concluded when I answered the Lord's calling of rest until his return. There to go to my  eternal journey where I will meet loved ones that preceded me.  My husband, Elzie Lee Evans, my parents, Brooks and Mattie Craven, my sister, Bama Craven-Vanhook, my brother, William Craven and other friends and loved ones.

Those left to cherish the memory of my journey are my children, Junior L. Evans (Vera), Shirley J. McBourrough (Ulyssee) and Sandra Evans, my brother, James Craven (Janie) 5 grandchildren, Lesa Simpson (Darrell), Eric Evans, Cory Smith, Elvan Gulley and Jereme Tatum, seven great-grandchilren, a Special Niece who assisted in my care, Pamela Dixon, Special Cousin, Frances Hendrix, among other relatives and loved ones.

Visitation will be 5:00 to 7:00pm, Friday, June 24, 2016, at BRAZZEL/Cornish Funeral Home 1196 Hwy 371 West in Prescott, Arkansas.

Funeral service will 11:00am, on Saturday, June 25, 2016 at Ward Chapel AME Church in Prescott. Burial will be in the Craven Cemetery at Prescott. Arrangements are by BRAZZEL/Cornish The Funeral Home of Prescott, Eddie BRAZZEL, Director.  Online guestbook: www.brazzelfuneralhomes.com