John Wheeler Echols Jr., 81, of Linden, died Thursday, Aug. 18 at his home. He was born Aug. 21, 1929 in Tuscaloosa. He was retired from Gulf State Paper and was a member of the Linden Baptist Church.

He is survived by his wife, Jean Wynne Echols, of Linden, son Walyer Wynne (Suzanne) Echols of Linden, daughter Sally Wynne Echols of Tallassee, daughter Phala Bradford Echols of Chang Mia, Thailand, five grandchildren and four great grandchildren. He was preceded in death in 1949 by his daughter, Jill Elizabeth Echols.

Funeral services were held at Linden Baptist Church on Sunday, Aug. 21 at 3 p.m. with Dr. Randy Creel officiating. Burial was at Linden Memorial Park in Linden.

Active Pallbearers were Carter Echols, Eddie Pruett, Jason Trucks, Corey Windham, David Greene, Paul Young, Patrick Young and Clay Nettles.

Honorary Pallbearers were Little Drug Coffee Club and CB Buddies. Condolences may be offered at www.obryantchapelfh.com. Arrangements by O’Bryant Chapel Funeral Home in Linden.