David A. Evans Jr.

David Arness Evans, Jr. (affectionately known as Lil’ Dave or Braze) was born in Columbus, Ohio on April 8, 1982 to Carolyn E. Phares and David A. Evans Sr. He attended Independence High School, Job Corps, and Ohio School for Broadcasting where he honed his skills in film, editing, and entertainment. Braze loved Hip Hop, was a gifted wordsmith, and had a natural talent for performing. He co-produced the Brazey Streets album, went on tour with Cappadonna of the Wu-Tang Clan and worked with various artists, including his favorite rapper, Canibus, with whom he developed a life-long friendship. Braze also had a passion for the culinary arts and frequently cooked with and worked alongside his dad at the family business, Dave’s Taste of Summer. His passion for cooking led him to pursue a career in the restaurant industry and he was most recently employed at Texas Roadhouse in Columbus, Ohio.

Braze was well known comedian who commanded the stage with his boisterous personality, quick wit, and loud voice. He loved to make people laugh and smile. He regularly performed at comedy venues in Columbus, Atlanta, Las Vegas and beyond. Notably, Braze headlined a comedy show hosted by Joe Torry, which he likened to being on Def Comedy Jam, and described it as one of his most cherished comedy moments. After establishing himself as a professional comedian, Braze hosted and performed shows to put other local comedians in position to excel. Braze was a bright light who had a talent for connecting people with opportunities to shine. He regularly supported his community and loved the neighborhood in which he grew up; shout out to the Southside and the Linwood B.O.L.A. Boyz! Braze enjoyed fishing
with his daughter and spending time with his family and friends.

Braze was called home on July 30, 2022. He is preceded in death by his parents, Carolyn E. Phares and David A. Evans, Sr. Braze is survived by his Fiancée ShaCara Schley; daughters Da’Yonna Pompey, Da’Vionna Pompey, and Davayah Evans; son Malik Robins; brothers Jason “Biggie” Phares and Jason Bowles; stepsister Mona Bowles; and Stepmother Laney Evans as well as his maternal grandmother, Patricia A. Penn.

Braze has a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins from two loving, beautiful families, the Evans and Phares. The family would like to give a special shout out to Uncle Pookie, Cousin Richard, Drank D, Shetty, Paydro, Omar, M.80, Yak, Money Mike, Big Chris, Monster, Edmond Featherstone, Cousin Marcus, Dewitt Lane, James Flowers, and everyone who knew, loved, and had a relationship with Braze.
You will forever be in our hearts. Until we meet again it will always be L’s Up!

Visitation 1:00 PM and Funeral Service 2:00 PM Saturday, August 13, 2022 at MARLAN J. GARY FUNERAL HOME, THE CHAPEL OF PEACE EAST, 5456 E. Livingston Ave.