(please click to read his BIOGRAPHY)

Thomas Wilbur Echols, Sr., known as "Tommy" to his friends and "Gpa" to his family, 84, died on Sunday, April 17, 2011 at his home in Canal Fulton, Ohio after a courageous battle with cancer. He surrendered peacefully to God's care and to be with his wife of 57 years, surrounded by the love of his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and close friends. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Sue Echols, and granddaughter, Tricia Echols. He is survived by his children: Tom "Rock" (Theo) Echols, James (Elaine) Echols, Marty (Bonnie Hudik) Echols, John (Peggy) Echols and Suzi Echols Upholzer. Grandchildren: Matt (Julie) Echols, Lizz (Chris) Wilcox, Sara Echols, Bryan (Jen) Echols, Chris (Amber Loving) Echols, Josh (Jessica) Gerber, Kelly (Aaron) Kawczk, Nick Gerber, Brad Echols, Maggie Echols, Jack Echols, Rachel Upholzer, Adam Upholzer and Brooke Upholzer. He is also survived by 8 great grandchildren: Jeremy Jowais, Jessica Jowais, Jackson Gerber, Ava Gerber, Ali Kawczk, Jake Echols, Blake Echols and Will Stack. Tommy was an active member of the Clinton United Methodist Church. Funeral Service THURSDAY, 11 a.m. at the Swigart-Easterling Funeral Home, 624 E. Cherry St. (Rt. 93, Canal Fulton) with Pastor Dale Gharky officiating. Friends may call WEDNESDAY 5-8 p.m. and Thursday one hour prior to time of services. Burial in Canal Fulton Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Clinton United Methodist Church, 7949 Cleveland-Massillon Road, Clinton, Oh 44216 or VNS Hospice, 3358 Ridgewood Road, Akron, OH 44333.