Deacon Willie “Bim” Echols was born on May 6, 1946 in Red Banks, MS. He was the son of the late James and Bessie Echols. He departed this life on Wednesday, April 1, 2020 at the age of 73 years old. He leaves behind his wife of 31 years, Lillie May Echols of Slayden, MS, they married on April 2, 1988. He served as Deacon of Cathedral of Praise Church of God in Christ in Byhalia, MS. He retired from Marshall County Road and Bridge in Holly Springs, MS, where he worked as a heavy machine operator. He liked fishing, hunting, and gardening.
He leaves behind his cherished memories to his wife: Lillie May Echols of Red Banks, MS, daughter: Evonne Marie Hale of Mt. Pleasant, MS, step-children: Reginald Dowdy (Demetra) of Byhalia, MS, Sharonda Dowdy and Shavonda Dowdy both of Horn Lake, MS, Ralana Dowdy-Jackson (Larry) of Michigan City, MS, grandchildren: Trey Dowdy, Montavies Dowdy, Mikayla Dowdy, Bryson Obaieh, Ladderrick Dowdy, siblings: Lula Echols of Memphis, TN, Oscar Echols (Lyn) of Memphis, TN, Laura Echols of Byhalia, MS, Laverne Echols of Memphis, TN, friends Robert Riley, James Earl Nabors, Clyde, and B. Rayford, a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives.
He was proceeded in death by his brothers Henery James Echols (Alberta) and Archie Echols.
Due to the outbreak of the Corona (COVID-19) Virus. The visitation and graveside service will be private just for the immediate family members. This is a guideline of the CDC and the State Board of Health. We do ask that those at risk or those not feeling well to please stay at home. You can reach out to the family via our website. Thank you all on behalf of the family and the Staff here at Serenity-Autry Funeral Home of Holly Springs, MS.
