Evan Elliott Isbell

Evan Elliott Isbell, 66, of Ozark, Missouri, passed away on August 5, 2026, in Springfield, Missouri, following a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born on October 28, 1959, in Wichita, Kansas, Evan was the son of Jimmy and Rheta Isbell. He grew up in Burlington, Kansas, where he graduated from Burlington High School.

You could say Evan's lifelong passion for automobiles began the day he put ape hanger handlebars on his bicycle. That passion quickly grew into a remarkable talent and career. A gifted craftsman with an eye for perfection, he loved building high-end hot rods and seemed to know everything there was to know about cars. He owned and operated Evan's Auto Body and Restoration in Emporia, Kansas, for many years, earning a reputation for exceptional craftmanship and honesty.

On July 1, 2001, Evan married the love of his life, Rae. Together they made their home in Ozark, Missouri, where he continued his career by owning Evan's Auto Body. He also painted RVs for 417 Coach Works and completed custom work for Pro Motion Motorsports. Whether it was a classic car, a daily driver, the boat trailer, or even the lawn mower, if it belonged to Evan, it was going to have chrome wheels that he polished religiously.

Beyond his talent in the shop, Evan was known for his playful personality. He loved telling jokes, pulling pranks, and was even known to bribe the kids into helping him pull off a good practical joke. He enjoyed kayaking, traveling in the RV with Rae, cooking, and spending hours tending the smoker and grill for family and friends. Evan had a generous heart and was known for being fair, honest, dependable, and always willing to help someone in need. Above all else, he adored his wife and treated Rae like a queen.

On July 19, 2025, Evan was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He faced his illness with remarkable strength, determination, and courage, never allowing it to define him. Even just days before his passing, he was still enjoying life on an RV trip, making memories with those he loved most. His resilience and positive spirit inspired everyone who knew him.

Evan is lovingly survived by his devoted wife, Rae Isbell; his children, Nicholas Isbell, Amy Isbell, Ryan Isbell, Jeromy Wallen, and Trevor Wallen; his grandchildren, Tess Baker, Trenton Wallen, Remington Wallen, Zander Wallen, and Raven Wallen; his great-grandson, Cash Wallen; his brother, Lonnie Isbell; his sister, Julie Isbell-Atkin; and his beloved dogs, Chloe and Tango as well as many neices, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jimmy and Rheta Isbell, and his faithful canine companions, Candy, Tater Salad, and Eli.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, August 22, from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Adams Funeral Home in Ozark. A Celebration of Life service will immediately follow.

Arrangements are under the direction of Adams Funeral Home. Cremation rites will be accorded by Adams Crematory.