Jennifer L. Evans

Jennifer L. Evans, 50 years of age, of Barnesville, Pennsylvania, passed away suddenly on Sunday, October 18, 2026, upon arrival at St. Luke’s Miners Memorial Campus in Coaldale, Pennsylvania.

Born on October 23, 1975, Jennifer was the daughter of Norene "Pinkey" (Engleman) Valentini, wife of Marc, and the late Wayne Oakes. A proud graduate of Tamaqua Area High School, Class of 1993, she continued her education at East Stroudsburg University and Penn State Hazleton, pursuing her passion for sports medicine and rehabilitation to become a licensed physical therapist assistant.

Jennifer dedicated 20 years of compassionate service to the Lehigh Valley Health Network. Her deep commitment to local youth and sports was further exemplified through her 18 years as the Athletic Trainer for Schuylkill Haven High School. While her athletes were always her primary responsibility, Jenn truly knew how to work the crowd. With her sharp wit and warm humor, she playfully kidded opposing players, coaches, and referees alike. On the sidelines or near the court, everyone knew that with Jenn nearby, their children were in the safest, most caring hands.

An avid sports enthusiast, Jennifer was a passionate supporter of both Notre Dame and Penn State Football. She also shared a deep love for hot rods and classic muscle cars. Family projects frequently revolved around working on her 1967 Camaro, Hunter's Chevelle, and Shannon's 1970 GTO—even though they all happily took a back seat to whatever current car Hunter had parked in the garage. Coming from a large, close-knit family, Jennifer naturally embraced the roles of ambassador, peacemaker, and taskmaster. Her cousins frequently looked to her for guidance, strength, and unwavering support. She will be remembered for her caring nature, fierce dedication to others, and the countless lives she enriched.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 23 years, Shannon T. Evans; her cherished son, Hunter T. Evans; her stepmother, Jacqueline J. Oakes; her stepsister, Mary Ann Walser; in-laws, Tom and Marie Evans. Many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and a vast circle of friends also survive Jenn.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 655 East Broad Street Tamaqua, Pennsylvania 18252. (570) 668-2550

A visitation will take place on Thursday October 22, 2026 from 4 to 7:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Prayers will be said at 7 o'clock P.M.

Online condolences or a fond memory of Jennifer can be expressed by visiting www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com