Eva Marie Carlin

In loving memory of Eva Marie Carlin

Eva Marie Carlin (Spencer), 58, of Simpson, Kansas, passed away peacefully in her home on April 23, 2026, after a courageous battle with stage 4 lung cancer.

Born on July 2, 1967, in San Rafael, California, to Judy and Jerry Spencer. She spent the first half of her life in California before making Kansas her home, where she built a life rooted in family, strength, and resilience. She primarily resided in Beloit and Simpson.

Growing up, Eva shared a special bond with her siblings. She often told stories about her and her sister Peggy looking so alike in school that they would switch places to confuse their teachers—a memory that brought laughter to those who heard it and reflected her playful spirit.

Eva’s greatest accomplishment in life was her strength and determination to change her path. Through hard work and perseverance, she overcame challenges, became sober, and built a life she was proud of—creating a loving home and strong roots for her family.

She worked many jobs throughout her life, but the one she held closest to her heart was her role as the store manager at Casey’s, where she dedicated herself fully and took great pride in her work.

Eva found joy in the simple but meaningful moments of life. She loved camping and knitting, but above all, she cherished time spent with her grandchildren. Whether it was relaxing at home, cheering on her grandkids at any sports fields, or enjoying time together at arcades, those moments meant everything to her and to them.

For her family, some of the most treasured memories were the summers spent together—camping in the courtyard of the Gold Dust house, sleepovers with cousins, and family camping trips to Woodward Lake with aunts and cousins. There were days filled with music, such as Garth Brooks and Shania Twain playing loudly, while adults played darts, kids shot basketballs, and swam in the “once-a-year” pop-up kiddie pools. Her home was full of laughter, especially her own—an unmistakable, contagious laugh that could fill any space. She will also be deeply missed for the simple comforts she created, like her fried potatoes and fried tortillas with cinnamon sugar.

Like many relationships, there were trials and tribulations along the way, but the love between a mother and her children remained constant—something no distance or hardship could ever take away. That love continues beyond this life and carries the promise of being reunited again.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jason Carlin, whom she married on July 26, 2008. Jason passed away on July 26, 2018. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Faron Spencer.

Eva is survived by her children: Krystal and John Sumner; Michael Orabuena and Patricia Hicks; Alicia and Grant Rogers; and Kassandra and Alec Davis.

She is also survived by her siblings: Peggy and Kerry Smith and their children and grandchildren; and Shelly and Jen Spencer and their son.

Her legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Kyra and John; Kimbr-Ann and Tilian; David, Jeffrey, and Jayden; and Kashous.

A service to celebrate Eva’s life will be held in Beloit, Kansas. The date and time are to be determined, and the family will share further details in the coming days.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.