Honoring the Legacy of Evelyn Niles … Loved Beyond Words

Evelyn Arnette Niles was born on May 9, 1935 to Lonnie Thompson and Marie Credle Thompson in Durham, North Carolina.  Evelyn transitioned from this beautiful life on Thursday, February 12, 2026 at the age of ninety, leaving a void her family cannot fill.

Evelyn attended Prospect Heights High School before studying Liberal Arts at Adelphi University, earning her Associate’s degree.  She went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Brooklyn College, and a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Massachusetts.  A proud woman of excellence, Evelyn pledged Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. Evelyn embodied the organization's commitment to scholarship and service throughout her life.  She was also a member of the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People), the nation's oldest and largest civil rights organization, until she could no longer attend meetings.

Evelyn’s early career included several years with the United States Postal Service at the Central Post Office.  She eventually chose to leave the night shift to be home in the evenings with her children, pivoting toward her true calling: Education.  She began as a Paraprofessional at Public School 44 (1968–1973) before becoming a lifelong English educator, starting at Boys’ High School.  Following the merger, she continued at Boys & Girls High School, ultimately retiring as Head of the English Department in June 1993.  Even in retirement, Evelyn’s passion for "opening minds" never waned; she returned to the field to mentor the next generation of future educators.  Evelyn is remembered by countless students and colleagues as a caring influence who was always direct — often delivering an "all-knowing look" that would either set you straight or make you think.

While educating others was her career, her first classroom was at home.  The library on Halsey Street was filled with books so that "there were no excuses."  She was famous for her "Grandma-isms", sharp bits of grammar wisdom delivered with love: “A sentence starts with a capital letter and ends with a period”. “Ain’t is not a word.” “There is a LIE in believe.” “Punctuation saves lives.” “I before E, except after C.” “I speak fluent sarcasm.” “Spellcheck can’t save you from everything.” and her favorite: “Grammar: Never use double negatives, even on summer break”.

Beyond her professional life, Evelyn was a woman of many passions — a unique blend of being a financial advisor and a Jay-Z fan.  A master gardener, devoted volunteer, an avid reader and traveler, she lived a "masterclass in intention."  Her life was a collection of "gems" — practical wisdom she dropped as often as she threw up the "Roc" sign to her favorite Jay-Z tracks.  She taught us that "investing in yourself" was a requirement, emphasizing the discipline of a 401(k), the security of home ownership, and the foresight of a pension.  This same fierce preparedness defined her as a mother.  Summertime belonged to Sunken Meadow where Evelyn and Stephanie found their own slice of serenity.  Evelyn used these beach days to anchor her daughter in the beauty of the water and the importance of shared family traditions.  Evelyn’s son Stan and his crew had to come to her rescue when a student hit her.  Stan was very protective of his mother.  This bond was a testament to showing up for people to protect them no matter what.  Steve would be a road runner driving from New York to Bayboro with Evelyn and the family -- all piled up in one car.  Family ties and remembering our lineage were always at the forefront.  Deep commitment to shared experiences and bonding during the long trek south taught us the importance of maintaining connections through travel and storytelling.  At St. John’s Recreation Center, her son Mike never had to wonder who was in his corner; after a hard foul, Evelyn famously stormed the court to set the kid straight, she was pulled back by Shu (her husband) — proving that loyalty is an action, not just a sentiment.  Later, she turned her eyes toward the horizon, introducing Missy to the magic of flying and the serenity of cruising, teaching her that the world is meant to be seen, and the journey is meant to be shared.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents Marie and Lonnie Thompson; her brother Robert Credle; her son Stanley Niles; and her former spouse Reuben Niles.  Evelyn is survived by daughters: Stephanie Niles and Michelle Alston; and sons: Stephen Niles and Michael Niles; sixteen grandchildren, twenty-five great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.  She also leaves behind special friends: Betty Kellen, Georgia McIntyre, Louise Grinnage, Nebert Jackson, and Evelyn Simmons, with whom she shared a lifetime of memories.

Evelyn’s legacy is simple but profound:

Work hard, save wisely, protect your own, and never miss a chance to set sail.  Whether she was exploring a distant coast,

or tending to her own corner of the world, she moved through life with grace, curiosity, and an open heart.   Be intentional …