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YourHub.com \\ Jensen Beach \\ Stories \\ Family & Friends \\ Traditions

Family Continues Christmas Tradition

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Contributed by: natalie evans on 12/24/2007

Christmas Eve this year brought the familiar Evans' Family tradition of Christmas Caroling together. What is even more remarkable is that four generations of a family were able to come together as a group on this holy occasion. Betty Jordan Burton, the matriarch of the group, was the honored guest of the family. She, along with her husband Buddy, had the seats of honor on the decorated trailer owned and decorated by Kenny and Sandy Leland, son-in-law and daughter. Kenny drove the group around their neighborhood in a bright red vintage tractor. Four of Betty's six children, along with their spouses, children and children's children were able to be there to celebrate the spirit of the season. Extended family also came to share in the festivities. A total of 26 people filled the trailer! Each year brings a different family member that has been added to the family.
This music heritage started with Betty. As a young mother, Betty was invited to sing at the Grand Ole Opry and spent many hours practicing musicwith her children. She later formed the singing Evans' Family with her children. They soon traveled together regionally with her and sang in many venues in the 1960's and 70's, including the infamous Variety Show at the Lyric Theatre.
Years later, her four daughters - Sandy, Susan, Carla, and Angel - formed the group, The Evans' Sisters. They, in turn, recorded an album and sang regionally as well. Her sons, Rick and Randy, continued the musical heritage with their songwriting, piano and guitar abilities. Many of the grandchildren have picked up that talent with their composing and musical abilities, and one granddaughter in particular, Connie Stiller Johnson,was recentlychosen to sing a solo of The Star Spangled Banner at the Atlanta Hawks football game this past year.
This Christmas eve's festivities began with son-in-law Kenny's labor of love in decorating his prize tractor and trailer. It was also no small task for Kennyto haul such a large group. Lights, glitter and a giant Santa completed the picture. The four generations ranged in age from 2 to 75, singing everything from Joy to the World to Silent Night. The captivatingfull goldenmoon and starlit night completed the magic of the night.
May all your Christmases be so bright! Merry Christmas!

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