Obituary of Thomas Alvin Echols, Sr.

Thomas Alvin Echols Sr., 79, of Crowley, Texas, entered into Heaven on March 14, 2026.

Thomas was born on November 5, 1946, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Clarence and Ada Echols. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1966 to 1968. Following his military service, he pursued his education at Hill County Junior College and West Texas State University, and also attended Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

A man of deep faith, Thomas devoted over 50 years of his life to ministry, serving as both an associate pastor and pastor. While faithfully answering his calling, he also worked full-time as a truck driver for Green Bay Packaging. He was actively involved in the National Bivocational Ministers Association, where he took great pride in helping expand its reach by establishing chapters in other states.

Thomas found joy in woodworking, especially crafting ink pens and baby rattles on his lathe, treasured pieces he lovingly made for his great-grandchildren and others.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Ada Echols; his brothers, Clarence Echols Jr. and Richard Echols; and his sister, Vera Pauley.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Brenda Echols; his children, Thomas Echols Jr., James Echols (Dorothy), Robert Echols (Tiffany) of Kansas, and Paula Hochstine (David). He also leaves behind numerous grandchildren, Bethany, Brandon, Christopher, James Jr., Shelby, Savannah, Jacob, Cheyenne, RJ, Skeet, Michael, Scott, Josh, Brittany, and Stephanie, as well as eight great-grandchildren, with two more expected later this year.

Thomas will be remembered for his unwavering faith, dedication to his family, and the legacy of love and service he leaves behind.