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.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
