Evan Reid Bartleson III

Evan Reid Bartleson III, of Atlanta, Georgia, passed away unexpectedly on July 22, 2026, at the age of 56. Born on November 3, 1969, Evan grew up in Sandy Springs and Maysville, Georgia, places that helped shape his lifelong love of adventure, nature, and connection with others.

THOSE HE LEAVES BEHIND
He is survived by his beloved wife, Stacey; his mother, Karen; his sister, Sarah Coole, and her daughters, Molly and Mia; his cousin, Carrie Ward, her husband, Brian, and their daughters, Avery and Adi; and his aunt, Betsy Jenniges, and her husband, Mike. He also leaves behind a wide circle of relatives, dear friends, colleagues, and fellow musicians whose lives were enriched by his humor, generosity, and friendship.

LIFE OF CREATIVITY
Evan lived a life defined by creativity, curiosity, and connection. Throughout his career, he wore many hats, including professional photographer, studio director, creative director, operations manager, trusted advisor, e-commerce business owner, and many others. Whatever role he took on, he managed it with talent and dedication.

LIFELONG PASSION OF MUSIC
Music was one of Evan's lifelong passions. A gifted guitarist for more than four decades, he played in more than a dozen bands and earned the respect and admiration of fellow musicians and music lovers alike. Whether performing on stage, collaborating with friends, or merely sharing his love of music, Evan enjoyed it all. One of his favorite pastimes was sitting in his home studio, guitar in hand, making up silly songs and recording videos to share with family and friends, often just to brighten their day and make them laugh.

THINGS HE LOVED
Outside of work and music, Evan seized life's experiences. He loved nature, literature, fine art, and exceptional food. An avid traveler, he found happiness exploring the world and returning to favorite destinations, including New York City's Upper West Side, Amsterdam in the springtime, and the beautiful beaches of Hawaii and Mexico. Closer to home, he loved exploring the North Georgia mountains, finding hidden trails and tucked-away waterfalls.

Yet, those who knew Evan best will remember him not for his accomplishments alone, but for the way he made people feel. To some he was Trey. To others, Trey Trey, Big E, Treygus, or simply Evan. Each name reflected a different chapter of his life and the many friends cultivated along the way. Regardless of what people called him, he had a remarkable gift for helping everyone feel seen, welcomed, and valued. He was funny, compassionate, generous, endlessly interesting, and often the source of laughter in any room. His quick wit, warm heart, and genuine kindness drew people to him throughout his life. Evan built connections that spanned decades and crossed continents. You couldn't go anywhere with him without running into someone he knew. His friendships stretched across the globe.

THOSE HAPPY, SPONTANEOUS ADVENTURES
Few things made Evan happier than a beautiful day and people to share it with. If the sun was shining, there was a good chance a text would arrive: "Wanna go to the mountains?" "Wanna go sit on a patio and eat tacos?" or "Wanna go fishing?" He had a special ability for turning a regular afternoon into an adventure. Evan understood that life's greatest pleasures were best enjoyed with the people you love. His spontaneous invitations created many memories that his family and friends will treasure forever.

LOVE YOU FIRST
Among the many traditions Evan treasured, none was more cherished than his family's favorite saying: "Love you first, like you first, love you most." Over time, it became a daily game, with each person trying to be the first to say it. Evan was famously difficult to beat. He was often up early, sending a text, making a call, or finding a way to claim victory before anyone else had the chance. What seemed like a game was really an expression of his character. He never missed an opportunity to let people know they were loved, and his family will carry that legacy of love with them always.

WE WILL MISS HIM ALWAYS
Though his loss leaves an immeasurable void, those who loved him take comfort in the laughter, adventures, music, and love he shared so generously. He will be remembered with gratefulness, affection, and never-ending stories, and he will be profoundly missed.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health, https://johnritterfoundation.org/.