Malai Alease Evans, 51, ascended into the Lord's arms on January 11, 2019. She was born in St. Louis, Missouri to Dr. James and Apostle Cyria-Reta Warner on July 17, 1967. Malai married Melvin Evans in Canton, Ohio in September 1990. She graduated from The University of Akron Honors' College with a Bachelor's in Education specializing in Reading and Music, and later obtained a Masters Degree in Curriculum and Instruction at Malone University. Malai was a classically trained pianist since age 7 and had a host of recognitions and accomplishments, including receiving a Fulbright Scholarship award and being one of the University of Akron's Honors' College first African American graduates. She served as a music scholar, teacher, church deaconess and exceptional mentor to others. Malai's sweet spirit, focus, and sense of humor touched the lives of those around her. She loved going to the library, ministering music and worship in the church, and participating in the Hilltop Hiker's Club.  Malai Evans is survived by her husband, Melvin Evans; her two children, Angel and Christian Evans; her mother, Cyria-Reta Warner; her sister, Rene Perez (Tony Perez) and her children, and her brother, James Warner II (Ronee Warner) and his children.

Malai's favorite scripture is found in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, "In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."