Father John Evoy, ex-Gonzaga psychology chief

The Rev. John J. Evoy loved spirited conversations, but he also knew how to be a good listener.

An intellectual who chaired the psychology department at Gonzaga University for 22 years, Father Evoy also spent countless hours listening to patients — many of whom he saw free of charge — in his 30 years as a practicing psychologist.

Father Evoy died July 29 from Alzheimers. He was 90.

Born in Seattle in 1911 to a family of Irish immigrants, Father Evoy grew up with a strong Catholic identity and a love of learning. He entered the Jesuit order at the age of 19, received a masters in philosophy from Gonzaga at 26, was ordained at 32 and received a doctorate in psychology from the University of Loyola in Chicago by 42.

"He was an interesting combination of characteristics," said Bob Davidson, who is married to a niece of Father Evoy's. "He had an extremely acute intellect and was interested in all sorts of issues, anything ranging from sports to psychology and politics. At the same time, he had a very quiet sensitivity to what others were saying.

"Anytime anybody ever wanted to talk about something he was always a ready listener."

In 1953, Father Evoy was named chair of the psychology department at Gonzaga, a post he held until his 65th birthday in 1975, when university rules forced him to retire as chair. During his career he also wrote seven books, including "Psychology of Human Love," "Parents on Successful Parenting" and "The Rejected: Psychological Consequences of Parental Rejection, Man and Woman."

"He had a real flair for writing," said his brother, Larry.

Father Evoy was associate editor of the Jesuit magazine "America" in the 1960s and contributed to other publications. And he served as secretary of Gonzaga's board of trustees for 11 years.

His brother's drive toward counseling, Larry Evoy said, sprang from a desire to assist those in need.

"He felt that was a way in which he could help the most people," he said. "And he did that. He would hold sessions in the evenings — and this was for people who could not afford fees."

Father Evoy also loved traveling to Ireland, where he had relatives. To keep ties to his homeland strong, he officiated at family weddings and baptisms there.

And when at home, his deep love of sports kept him close to his television set. "He wouldn't miss a televised Mariners game or a televised Seahawks game," his brother said.

Father Evoy was preceded in death by three brothers, Gerard, Matthew and Robert. In addition to his brother Larry, he is survived by numerous nieces and nephews. A rosary and Mass of Christian Burial have already been held. Remembrances may be sent to the Jesuit Retirement Fund, Oregon Province of the Society of Jesus, P.O. Box 4408, Portland, OR 97208-4408.