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Jim Evans, East End Developer, Dead at 74

March 1, 2005 – James Alderman Evans died peacefully in his home in Hailey, Idaho on Feb. 22. He was 74. Born in Augusta, Ga., Evans graduated from Richmond Academy in Augusta, attended the University of Georgia and served four years in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Franklin Delano Roosevelt during the Korean War before moving to the U.S. Virgin Islands. Jim and his brother Bill Evans, now in Bellevue, Idaho, pioneered the development of St. Thomas's East End.
One of Jim's accomplishments was creating Cowpet Bay, the first condominiums in the Caribbean. Cowpet was featured in "National Geographic."
Jim remained involved at the East End for over four decades where he was involved in the establishment of a Montessori School, and was one of the founding members of the St. Thomas Yacht Club. He also was instrumental in founding a local chapter of Rotary Club International Later, he and his wife Tewa supported Virgin Islanders who struggled with mental illness and substance abuse by sponsoring events including "Pow Wow in Paradise" and the Caribbean premiere of "Dances with Wolves." With his wife and son he also helped establish and support a local Idaho Chapter of the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill.
He founded San Sebastian Marine in St. Augustine, Fla, which produced wooden fishing vessels and steel- hulled ships before setting sail himself for South America. During his colorful life he traveled extensively, including safari Africa, being detained in Castro's Cuba, and mixing well with the Mohawks of Kanawake, Quebec.
He was an able sea captain, scuba diver, aircraft pilot, restaurateur, gentleman farmer and honorary Kentucky Colonel and a wonderful storyteller. He retired in the Wood River Valley, Idaho, in 1987 enjoying many friendships and exploring with his horse and faithful dog Mac at his side.
He will be remembered for his strength of character, loyalty to his family and love of his country. He was known by all for his kindness, generosity of spirit, and eagerness for adventure with a big smile and a glimmer in his eyes. He always said he wanted to "die with his boots on" and he succeeded. His greatest work was as a father, husband and friend. He will be sorely missed.
He is survived by his wife Tewa, children; Tracy, Julie, Tony and Chris Evans, and their families, including three grand-daughters, Rachel, Baharea, and Luci Evans, his brother, Bill Evans and wife Helen, niece and nephews, Tara Evans Shimberg, Houston Evans, and Bill Edwards. Sister- in-law Nadine Horne and her son Nick Mosca.
In lieu of flowers, donations should be sent to the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, Wood River Valley. A celebration of Jim's life will take place at the Light on the Mountain Spiritual Center on Saturday March 5th at 3 p.m. There will also be memorials held in Augusta, Ga., Isle of Palms S.C., and St. Thomas, V.I., to be announced at a later date.

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