Tom Echoles

God called his faithful servant home on the evening of August 14, 2025, Thomas passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends. Thomas Earl Echoles Sr. was born on June 2, 1939, in Vardaman, MS, to his late parents, Tom Echoles and Jewel Hunter. He relocated to Winslow, AZ, at a young age, where he became a long-time resident.

Thomas married Dorothy Jean (Scott) Echoles on April 18, 1964, and they remained married for 61 years. The couple has six children together, and Thomas has four additional children from a previous marriage.

Thomas was active in the Winslow community and was always willing to lend a helping hand. He worked as the plant manager of a construction company and retired doing the work he loved. He served faithfully as a deacon at Faith Temple Church of God in Christ for several years, where he found his salvation.

Four years ago, Thomas and his loving wife moved to Phoenix, AZ, to be closer to their children and some grandchildren, where he became a member of Emmanuel Church of God in Christ.

Thomas was a gentle soul who never met a stranger. He was always ready to pray for anyone he encountered and greeted everyone with a smile and a heartfelt “God Bless You”. Known for his wisdom, listening ear, and warm spirit, Thomas made friends wherever he went, and he was deeply loved in return. His world revolved around his beautiful wife and family, and he will always be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

Thomas is survived by his wife, Dorothy Jean Echoles; sons, Thomas Earl Jr. Echoles (Theresa), Thomas Lee Echoles (Katherine), Joe Lee Echoles (Dorothy), and Tommy Echoles; daughters, LaDonna Echoles, Windle Echoles, Stephenia Echoles, JoAnn Echoles, and Grace Ann McDuffy (Donald); as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews; goddaughter and godson. He is also survived by two brothers-in-law, five sisters-in-law, and other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Tom Echoles and Jewel (Hunter) Echoles; his sisters, Mary Hayes, Lila Thomas, Essie McMath, Scottie Norwood, Gerline Fairley, Ruthie Washington, and his son Edward Charles Echoles.