Octavia "Sissy" Certain

Octavia “Sissy” Certain 1946-2025

Octavia “Sissy” Certain, beloved mother and friend, 78, of Tucson, Arizona quietly passed away on Friday, April 11th. Originally a resident of New Jersey she moved out to Arizona to make the most of her retirement.

She was born October 05, 1946, in Chester, Pennsylvania to Joseph and Minnie Evans along with her brother Julius. Affectionately known as Sissy she went on to attend Chester High School, before getting a job in accounts payable at Strawbridge & Clothier. She went on to retire from Kimberly Clark after working there more than 25 years. Sissy had a deep love for travel, with memorable trips spanning from Jerusalem to Ireland. She adored nature, rodeo shows, and country music. Christmas was one of her favorite times of year. She took great joy in decorating and sending hand-picked cards to each family member, always tailored to their unique personality.

She was preceded in death by her brothers Thomas “Tommy” Evans, Julius “Jule” Evans, her sister Ida “Cookie” Ward, and her granddaughter Aigner Certain.  She is survived by her daughters Retrinda and Jacqueline, grandchildren Dominique, David, Deja, Deandre, Mikaela, and Moriah and seventeen great grandchildren who will never forget the love, advice, and stories she shared.

A viewing will be held in Tucson, AZ Wednesday April 16, at 4 pm and a Memorial service will be held for friends and family in Chester, PA at a later time and location.