Neva Jean Evenhouse

Reverend Neva Jean Evenhouse died peacefully at home and went to meet her Savior on June 9, 2025 at age 91. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, sibling and friend. She was born to Leonard and Betty Vander Zee on September 26, 1933 in Watkins Glen, NY, grew up in Grand Rapids MI, graduated from the Blodgett School of Nursing, and married Robert Evenhouse in 1954. 

Neva began writing Bible study materials for and meeting with neighborhood women new to the Bible  after seeing a need. This effort grew and eventually became the Coffee Break program. She published and distributed materials, and led training under Discover Your Bible and it grew to be a worldwide ministry. 

Later she was called to ministry as a pastor. She attended Western Theological Seminary and became a  pastor in the Reformed Church in America in 1984. She was ordained at Christ Memorial Church in Holland MI before serving the Community Church of Wurtsboro NY in a solo pastorate. After retirement,  Bob and Neva moved to the Holland Home where she preached regularly. 

Neva was known for her kindness to all, no matter the background, race or creed. She was very  appreciative of the loving care shown to her by the staff at Holland Home for which the family will always be grateful. 

Neva is survived by her siblings, Bonnie Houtstra, Janet DeWaal, Leonard VanderZee  (Jeanne Logan) & John VanderZee (Wendy); and also by her children Mark Evenhouse (Shelley), Keith Evenhouse (Laura) and Richard Evenhouse; and grandchildren David (Tessa Grindle-DeGraaf), Kate & Erin Evenhouse (Jef McClimans) and two great grandchildren, Maddie & Jasper McClimans. 

Memorial services will be held 11 am Saturday, June 14 at Central Reformed Church, 10 College Avenue NE, Grand Rapids with Rev. Steven Pierce, officiating. Relatives and friends may meet the family Friday from 5-7 pm at Central Reformed Church, 10 College Avenue NE, Grand Rapids and from 10-10:45am on Saturday prior to the service at the church.  Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Western Theological Seminary or the Holland Home.