Harold Richard Echols

Harold Richard Echols, 59 of Columbus, Ohio, passed away on December 31, 2012 peacefully in his sleep.
Harold was born in Cleveland, Ohio on June 13, 1953 to the union of Gary and Edith Echols. He graduated from East Technical High School in Cleveland, Ohio. He continued his education at Wilberforce University, Columbus Technical Institute, Franklin University and Ohio Dominican University, receiving three degrees in business management, accounting and business finance.
Harold enlisted in the United States Navy after completing high school and was a Petty Officer First Class and received an honorable discharge. His military career was highlighted by his excellence in commissary management and his much sought after skills as a barber.
After his discharge he continued to expand his management skills while working at the Columbus Metropolitan Community Action Organization. As an intake manager he had a special sensitivity to meeting the specific needs of the multiple consumers that he was honored to serve. He expanded his corporate management skills through his career opportunities at Churches Chicken and Discover Card. Always willing to help others, he continued to guide younger employees by teaching them the ropes and sharing the tools of the trade. He finalized his career opportunities as a successful business owner.
He was actively involved in his sons multiple sports activities. He was a supportive parent in his children’s school activities; his silent strength was a constant presence. He was a lifelong advocate of educational opportunities for his children. He pushed them to set high academic goals and encouraged them to pursue their individual dreams.
A patient and quiet man, Harold enjoyed fishing, collecting unique and unusual items and was known for his household repairs. His numerous activities around the house were often joked about as the “I’m going to get to that” project. Harold was blessed in his life with his relationship with to Lynda Gayle Lemons. Harold Echols was a man of few words but consistent actions that spoke of his love his children and extended family. As one of the favorite brother-in-laws he could be counted on through thick and thin. He valued true friendship, his “once a friend always a friend” motto allowed him to maintain the bonds of many friends across the years.
Harold is survived by his mother Edith Echols; widow Linda Gayle Lemons and son Darius and special son Joseph Carter; children Michael Clayton Echols son of Paula Clayton, Harold Richard Charles (Deveta) Echols; Jessica Echols; Rachael Echols; children of Deborah Scott Echols; and Justice Brown; child of Carolyn Brown; his special grandchildren Damya and Tristan; as well as his brothers and sister Gary Echols; Larry Echols; and Pamela Echols-Kelly.
Harold is preceded in death by his father Gary Echols; his brother Michael Echols as well as his special son Desmond Wright.