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The George Evans Special Needs Fun Day was held on Thursday for the first time without its founder, former Selma Mayor, George Evans.

Elementary and high schools in Selma City Schools and Dallas County Schools packed the George P. Evans Building to honor special needs children in the area. Evans founded the event nearly 15 years ago to benefit kids at Cahaba Mental Health, Selma City Schools and Dallas County Schools. Evans passed away on May 15, 2023.

Evans’ widow, Jeannie Evans, and her sons, Bryon, Patrick and Duane, were praised by local officials and board members for honoring George Evans, who served as Mayor from 2008 to 2016. Jeannie Evans thanked the board members and volunteers for their support. 

Dallas County Probate Judge Jimmy Nunn said Evans would approve of how the foundation has continued to thrive. 

“If George Evans were here today, he would be doing the same thing,” Nunn said. “George Evans would be proud of what’s going on in his honor. I thank the Evans family for carrying on the tradition.”

Selma City Schools Superintendent Dr. Zickeyous Byrd said he appreciated that Evans looked for kids in Selma and Dallas County Schools.

“We’re thankful for former mayor George Evans,” Byrd said. “His spirit lives on.”

Selma City Councilwoman Jannie Thomas appeared at the event.  The Selma Fire Department and its mascot, Sparky, were on hand.

Former Selma City Councilwoman Angela Benjamin was the master of ceremonies.