Evan Reed Vandiver, 19, of Richmond, beloved son, brother, grandson, cousin and friend, passed away on Thursday, July 13, 2023, in Osage Beach.

Evan was born to his loving parents, Gary and Penny (Holloway) Vandiver, on Jan. 22, 2004, in Kansas City. They survive of the home.

He also is survived by his brother, Ashton Vandiver; sister, Abby Vandiver; niece, Kehlani Grace Vandiver; aunts and uncles, Heather Bauer of Ballwin, Dale Vandiver of Richmond and Sara Fougere (John) of Columbia; and his cousins, Lauren Bauer, Landon Bauer, Blaire Lawrence (Matt), Jake Vandiver (Reanna), Gabe Vandiver, Drew Fougere, Grant Fougere and Luke Fougere; and his grandparents, Mel and Mary Holloway of Richmond.

Evan was predeceased by grandparents Bob and Kay Vandiver; his uncle, Jim Bob Vandiver; aunt, Kim Vandiver; and his cousin, Logan Bauer.

Evan completed his freshman year in May at William Jewell College in Liberty, studying business finance. He took great pride in earning a place on the college’s honor roll both semesters. He also had found a home at the Zeta Phi chapter of Phi Gamma Delta, where he made many special friends.

A 2022 graduate of Richmond High School, Evan was an outstanding student and athlete, achieving excellence both in the classroom and on the athletic field. He excelled in track and was proud of running the anchor leg on the Richmond 800-meter relay team that won the Class 3 state track championship in 2021.

Evan loved all sports, especially football. He loved running the ball from the time he was young until he was old enough to play for his hometown Spartans. Some of his happiest times were spent on the football field with his teammates, highlighted by their journey to the Class 2 state semifinals when he was a senior.

In his free time, Evan loved golfing at Shirkey Golf Course in Richmond or being with his family at the Lake of the Ozarks. He enjoyed spending his days on the boat and ending every evening hanging out on the dock with his favorite people – his brother and sister.

Humble and kind, Evan was best described as the “fastest kid with the biggest heart.” Evan was known for his kind soul and his dazzling smile. He lit up every room he was in with his bright spirit and his dancing. He was adored by virtually everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him, but especially his parents, siblings, grandparents, cousins and friends, who’ll miss him terribly.

We will always love our Sweet Evan, forever young in our hearts at 19.

In lieu of flowers, if you would like to make a memorial contribution, please consider the Evan Vandiver Scholarship Fund. Memorials can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 18, at the Richmond United Methodist Church. Visitation will be held 4-7 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 17, at the church. Burial will be in Richmond Memory Gardens.

Services will be livestreamed on the Richmond United Methodist Church’s YouTube channel.

Please share your memories of Evan and condolences with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome. com.