Family of Coral Springs woman who died after canal discovery speaks out as crowdfunding effort gains attention while police investigate husband
Coral Springs, Florida – The family of 38-year-old Jessica Lloyd, whose body was discovered in a Coral Springs canal on August 25 and who later died in a hospital, is remembering her life while highlighting the dangers of domestic violence as authorities continue to investigate her death.
According to a GoFundMe page created by her relatives, Lloyd was a “happy little soul” known for her adventurous streak. She was a diver, angler, equestrian, and longtime member of a local actors’ group who had recently begun pursuing a nursing career. The family described her as generous, hardworking, and affectionate, a frequent hugger with “infectious laughter” who “found real contentment in even the smallest joys,” whether spending time with friends, caring for pets, or stargazing with her mother.
To help cover memorial costs, counseling, and what the family calls “present and future legal expenses” along with awareness initiatives, they launched a GoFundMe page. They also plan a “Celebration of Love” for those who cherished Lloyd and hope her story serves as “a national call to action” regarding domestic abuse.
The family’s account details that Lloyd entered a whirlwind relationship that led to marriage after less than two months – a decision described as out of character for someone who had always been open and connected. Following the wedding, the family said her contact with loved ones noticeably declined.
A particularly harrowing incident is cited from roughly 17 months into the marriage. According to the family, a neighbor called 911 reporting screams and a voice pleading, “My husband is trying to kill me.” Surveillance video allegedly shows Lloyd barefoot, climbing over a pointed wooden fence and fleeing into the night before ultimately being found face-down in the canal near her home.
In August, Jeffrey Evans, 43, identified as Lloyd’s husband, was arrested on one count of domestic violence–simple battery. He was booked into Broward County Jail on $1,000 bond, later posted bond, pleaded not guilty, and is currently under house arrest. Evans, a firefighter, is locally known as the former brewmaster at Big Bear Brewing and had previously pitched city officials on opening a brewery at the Cornerstone development.
According to the arrest report, dispatchers received a 911 call at 8:51 p.m. from Evans stating his wife was experiencing a “mental break” and needed police assistance. Coral Springs police have said the case remains under active investigation and have not released new information regarding Lloyd’s death or Evans’ arrest.
While the investigation continues, Lloyd’s family is using this time to honor her life and raise awareness about domestic violence. The GoFundMe page emphasizes her vibrant personality and dedication to the people and activities she loved, hoping the community can rally around her memory and contribute to the broader conversation about abuse and safety.
“Jessica was someone who truly embraced life,” the family said. “She made the world brighter for everyone around her, and we hope sharing her story will help prevent tragedies for others and encourage people to take action when they see warning signs of abuse.”
Friends and supporters are encouraged to attend the “Celebration of Love” planned by the family, and to visit the GoFundMe page to assist with memorial and advocacy efforts. As of now, authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Lloyd’s death and Evans’ role in the events leading up to it.
This case has cast a spotlight on domestic violence in Coral Springs, prompting discussions about support systems, community awareness, and the importance of speaking out when abuse is suspected. Through her family’s efforts, Lloyd’s life and story are serving as both a remembrance and a cautionary tale, highlighting the ongoing need for vigilance and compassion in the face of domestic abuse.
