Charlene Joyce Evans

Charlene Evans, a devoted mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2026, at the age of 85.

Born in Alton, Illinois, on July 26, 1940, Charlene moved to Phoenix as a teenager and graduated from Phoenix Union High School. After marrying Bruce Evans, they resided in Phoenix until Bruce’s graduation from Arizona State University, after which they relocated to Seattle, Washington. Charlene cherished the beauty and rain of the Pacific Northwest and worked for the Boeing Company during their time there. The couple later moved to Denver, Colorado, before eventually settling in Southern California. In California, Charlene had a successful career as a Legal Secretary for Northrop Grumman for 30 years. Though she and Bruce later divorced, they remained friends until his passing. Charlene enjoyed her retirement years in Mesa, Arizona.

While Charlene spent a significant portion of her life in the Arizona desert, she was always drawn to the ocean, particularly during her years in Southern California. She found great joy in walking on the beach and savoring crab legs and fried clams at the Pier in Redondo Beach.

Charlene possessed a passion and zest for life, especially during the holidays. She delighted in decorating for all occasions, with Christmas being her favorite. She eagerly anticipated putting up her tree, admiring the twinkling lights and treasured ornaments. She also loved engaging in various crafts with her grandchildren and family, and enjoyed entertaining, meticulously setting a special dining table for each event. Her grandchildren were the absolute light of her life, and she showered them with immense love.

Charlene is survived by her children, Cathy Ordenes (Maurice) and Greg Evans (Sanoma), and her cherished grandchildren, Erica (24), Matthew (23), and Krystal (15). She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Ilene Wright, and her sister, Pat Ziebell.

A service will be held at Wise Choice Funeral Home, 9702 E. Apache Trail, Mesa, AZ 85207, on Saturday, August 29, 2026. A family gathering and greeting will take place from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by the service from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.

For those wishing to send flowers, please have them delivered to the funeral home on Friday, August 28th.

Charlene Evans will be dearly missed.