Michael Bernard Echols

Michael Bernard Echols, known affectionately as Mike by his friends and family, passed away from a heart attack on September 28, 2024, in Longview, Texas. Born on March 16, 1960, in Marshall, Texas, to Mary LeNelle Echols and the late James Echols, Mike's zest for life and his hearty laughter filled the lives of all who knew him.
Mike grew up in Shreveport, where he attended Huntington High School. After graduation, he went on to leave an indelible mark on the community through his business, Echols Steel Erection. His work ethic and dedication to his craft were evident to anyone who worked with him. Later in life, he brought his expertise and jovial spirit to C Wrights Machine, where he continued to influence both the industry and his colleagues with his knowledge and humor.
Mike's life was a testament to the spirit of adventure. In his youth, he rode bulls and participated in rodeo, embracing the thrilling and daring aspects of life with fearless enthusiasm. He carried this passion into his adult years, often found with a lasso in hand, roping with precision and skill. An avid outdoorsman, Mike could frequently be seen with a fishing rod or a golf club, making memories with friends and family. Hunting was among his favorite pastimes, with dove and squirrel hunting being his preferred forms of the sport. In his later years, Mike discovered a passion for drag racing, a hobby that spoke to his courageous nature and love for speed.
Mike's sense of humor and adventurous spirit were contagious. He was the kind of man who could light up a room with his wit and charm, making everyone around him feel instantly at ease. His courage was not just evident in his hobbies but also in the way he lived his life, facing challenges head-on and always with a smile.
He was a beloved patriarch, survived by his devoted wife, Regina Echols, and their cherished children: Clint Echols and his wife April, Cole Echols and his wife Lauren, Josh Scoggin and his wife Ann, Donnie Huffman and his wife Brittany, and Denise Jones and her husband Mark. Mike's legacy continues through his grandchildren Austin and his wife Grace, Clara, Brayden, Kate, Randall, Grayson, Christopher, Tripp, Emersyn, Grant, and Oaklyn, all of whom will miss their grandfather's larger-than-life presence.
Moreover, Mike leaves behind his brothers; James Martin "Marty" Echols and wife Sherry, and Mark Echols and wife Tracy, a host of nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart. His mother, Mary LeNelle Echols, will fondly remember her son's laughter and the joy he brought into her life, as will his many friends who were blessed to know him. Mike was preceded in death by his grandson Michael Lane Echols.
Mike's life was a beautiful tapestry of love, laughter, and adventure. He was a man who lived fully, loved deeply, and left a lasting impact on everyone he met. His legacy of courage, humor, and adventure will live on in the hearts of his loved ones. Mike's story is not one of sorrow, but of celebration-a life well-lived and a man well-loved.
Family and friends will gather for a time of visitation on Wednesday, October 2, 2024 in the Garden Court of Welch Funeral Home. A Life Celebration funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 3, 2024 at 10 o'clock in the morning in the chapel of Welch Funeral Home with Craig Evers officiating.
As we say goodbye to Michael Bernard Echols, we take comfort in the memories he has left us with-a life that serves as a reminder to embrace every moment with passion and laughter. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten.