James Clifford Echols Jr.

1932 - 2018

Mr. James Clifford Echols, Jr., 85, went home to be with his savior on May 28, 2018.

Mr. Echols was a lifelong resident of Wilkes County, GA, the son of the late James Clifford Echols, Sr. and the late Ruby Collins Echols. He worked for the City of Washington for over 32 years as the Director of Civil Defense, Historical Preservation, Director of Grounds, was one of the founders of the EMA and a volunteer with the Fire Department for 25 years. Mr. Echols loved antiques and collectibles, camping with wife, children, and grandchildren, wood working and working in the yard. He was a member and served as deacon, Sunday school teacher, and wherever needed at Washington Chapel. In the last few years prior to his illness he attended Lakeside Chapel in Lincolnton, GA. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his daughter, Teresa Bray. Survivors include his beloved wife of 64 years, Martha Matthews Echols; son, Dennis Echols (Angela) of Winterville, GA; daughter, Sonya Pilgrim (Randy) of Thomson, GA; sister, Dorothy Ponder of Vienna, GA; 7 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at Noon, Thursday, May 31, 2018 at New Life Baptist Church with Reverend Randy Bray and Brother Sam Thorpe officiating. Interment will follow in Resthaven Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until Noon at New Life Baptist Church prior to the service.

Beggs Funeral Home, 799 Cobbham Rd., Thomson, Georgia is in charge of arrangements.