Opal Jean Evans of Rockford, IL departed this earthly life on Tuesday, September 3, 2024. She was born and raised in Prescott, Arkansas on March 30, 1953,  to John and Clotile Jackson. She attended McRae High School in Prescott, Arkansas. In 1975, Opal moved to Rockford, where she worked at G.C. Electronics before becoming a full-time homemaker and caretaker to her loved ones.  She would later become an in-home childcare provider for years until health problems prevented her from continuing her business.

Opal was a faithful member of Ephesians Missionary Baptist Church for over 20 years, where she enjoyed attending Sunday School, worshiping the Lord, and hearing the preached word of God. She served as Sunday School secretary for several years until further health challenges prevented her from attending services in person.

In her spare time, Opal enjoyed reading her Bible, doing word search puzzles, watching Wheel of Fortune and Lifetime movies, cooking and baking. Her family will miss her famous banana pudding, sweet potato pie, spaghetti, macaroni and cheese, lasagna and the many other meals she would prepare with love.

Opal was a mighty woman of God; a powerful prayer warrior and intercessor. She will forever be remembered for her encouraging words, generosity and boldness.  She was not ashamed to give God praise no matter the circumstances or location; in sickness or health, at the store, at the doctor's office, even in the hospital. The joy of the Lord was truly her strength and even during the most challenging moments of her life, when asked how she was doing, she would always respond with "I'm blessed." Those who knew Opal knew she was truly blessed indeed.

Opal leaves to cherish many loving memories, two daughters, Martina (Jerrod) Larry, and Candace (Eric) Hooker; 11 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren; five sisters, Ola Mae (Willie) Flowers, Ruby (William) Coffee, Mary Ann Walton, Christene (Leon) Willis and Carolyn (James) Jackson; three brothers, David (Ruth) Jackson, James (Patricia) Jackson and Lester (Diane) Jackson; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She was predeceased by her parents John and Clotile Jackson; grandson Caleb Hooker; and  son Charles Wyatt.

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 14, 2024 at Ephesians Missionary Baptist Church, 1112 Taylor Street. Visitation will be held from 9:00  a.m. until time of service. Burial at Cedar Bluff Cemetery. Arrangements completed by Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home, Inc. at 200 N. Johnston Ave.