Evan Ulrey

Evan Ulrey was born in Martinsville, Illinois, on August 25, 1922. His parents were A. Melvin and Mary Robinson Ulrey. He had eight siblings, all of whom are deceased. He died on March 13, 2017 after a long illness. He graduated from Harding College in 1946. He then earned an M.A. and a Ph. D. in Speech from Louisiana State University. He returned to Harding in the fall of 1950, where he served as Chariman of the Department of Speech and taught for 42 years. He coached Harding's debate teams, served as national president of Pi Kappa Delta, the debate society, and was honored to be placed in their Hall of Fame. He was also named the state's outstanding teacher by the Arkansas Speech Communication Association and received the Distinguished Teacher Award at Harding in 1969. In 1951 Ulrey married Betty Lou Thronton, who survives him. Also surviving him are their children, Rebecca Ann Ulrey, Bonnie Barnes (Cary), and Robert Ulrey (Jill ), their four grandchildren and two step-grandchildren: Dylan Baker, Evan Baker, Grace Ulrey, James Ulrey, Heather Jackson (Tommy), Margaret Bans (Jason), and their four step-great grandchildren, as well as many relatives and close friends. The family wishes to express appreciation to Dr. Ulrey's physicians and caregivers. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Ulrey Thronton Scholarship at Harding University or the charity of your choice. Friends may view on Thursday, March 16, 2017 from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 17, 2017 at 1 p.m. at College Church of Christ with a reception to follow. Interment will be private. Roller-Daniel Funeral Home, Searcy is in charge of the arrangements. For online guest book, www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.