In an announcement on Sunday, September 10, 2023, Dr. Tony Evans, founder and senior pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, Texas, and a highly influential figure in American Evangelicalism, shared news of his engagement. Dr. Evans told his congregation, “God in His sovereignty has brought someone into my life.” This news comes nearly four years after the death of his wife, Lois Evans, who was instrumental in his life and ministry.

Dr. Evans spoke about the emotional journey he and his family have undergone since the loss of Lois in December 2019, saying, “As I come up to the fourth year of the loss of Lois, my wife, of 49 and a half years, it is a tender time. They remind us everywhere of her life and of her influence on me, my family, and this ministry.” He acknowledged the ups and downs that come with such a significant loss, and expressed gratitude for those who have shared in his family’s grief. “And I want to thank so many of you who have been grievers with us and allowed us to agree with you on some of your times.”

The announcement revealed that Dr. Evans is engaged to Ms. Carla Cormier, a woman who has also experienced profound loss. “This someone has traveled this similar road,” he said. “In fact, she and her husband were on their way to Lois’s funeral when her husband died.” Dr. Evans asked for prayers and sensitivity as they both navigate new chapters in their lives, underlining the symmetry in their past grief experiences. “I lost my father one month and then lost my wife the next month. She lost her mother one year, lost her husband the next year.”

In a nod to the delicate balance of joy and sorrow that the engagement news might bring to some, Dr. Evans said, “This may or it’s already invoked some grief in some people, which I can understand, because we’re reminded about the fingerprints.”

Lastly, he emphasized how Ms. Cormier has honored the legacy of his late wife. “The one thing I’ve appreciated about Sister Carla is that she has held Lois Evans high in honoring her legacy here. I’m looking forward to the fellowship and I appreciate it.”