ELDER DR. WILLIAM A. ECHOLS

Born in Bynum, Texas, William Arthur Echols was the fifth of eleven children of Elder Israel Echols and Bennie M. Echols.  He was a dedicated member of Echols Chapel of Grace COGIC where he served in many capacities, including Sunday School Superintendent and Teacher.  He also worked alonside his mother as an administrative assistant ensuring the church's mission continued to flourish.  His commitment to the church extended beyond the local congregation.  He contributed to the Texas Southwest Scholarship program for over a decade and compiled church history for more than twenty years.  In 1998, he was ordained as an Elder under Superintendent Dr. Gilbert Gillum.

Elder Echols valued education and achieved numerous academic milestones.  He was a graduate of Prairie View A&M University, the University of Houston, and the Thaddeus D. Iglehart Institute of Ministry Training.  His academic achievements include a Bacherlor's Degree in Mathematics, Physics and Military Science, a Master's Degree in Mathematics, and a Doctorate in Measurement and Statistics.

His professional career reflected his passion for education.  He served as an instructor of Mathematics at the Houston Community College, a Professor of Research and Statistics at The University of Phoenix, and an Assistant Professor of Psychology at the University of Houston.  He also held leadership roles including Chair of Developmental Mathematics at Houston Community College and Are Chair of Business Science Management at the University of Phoenix.

Beyond academics, Elder Echols was an accomplished author and was recognized in Who's Who Among College Students and Universities at Prairie View A&M University.  He also dedicated himself to causes like the United Negro College Fund, the American Heart Association, and the Disabled Veterans Association.  As a former officer in the United States Armed Forces, he proudly served his country. Elder Echols was a loving husband, a devoted father, honorable son, dedicated brother, supportive cousin, reliable uncle, unwavering friend, a mentor and Professor.

Elder Dr. William Arthur Echols was called home to be with the Lord on Friday, March 21, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of faith, education, and service.  A devoted husband, father, teacher and church leader, Elder Echols lived a life dedicated to God, family, and the pursuit of knowledge.  He was a proud third generation member of the Church of God in Christ. His deep faith and love for ministry were evident throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents (Elder Israel L. Echols, Sr. and District Missionary Bennie M. Echols), sister (Missionary Janis Marie Echols), and five brothers (Luther Lee Echols, Israel Echols, Jr., Donald Ray Echols, Anthony Douglas Echols, and Timothy Eugene Echols.)

He is survived by his wife, Pearline Daniels Echols; six children; Landron, Kyle, Canaan, Tymon (Jennifer Christine), Krystal and Christopher Damien Sweet; brother, Elder Virgil Wayne Echols, Sr. (Angela); sister, Missionary Barbara Ann Wilder; sisters-in-law: Priscilla and Bobbie,  and a host of other relatives.

Dr. Echols leaves behind a lasting impact on his family, his church, and the countless students he mentored.  The Echols Memorial stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication to faith, education, and community service, ensuring that his work will continue to inspire generations to come. Though he is no longer with us in body, his wisdom, faith, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Rest in peace, Elder William Arthur Echols. Your legacy will forever shine.

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