Drewryville, VA- Alden Leonard Echols, 85, died January 29, 2015 at Southside Regional Medical Center, Emporia. He was born November 21, 1929 in Waynesville, NC, a son of the late Edward Mitchell and Harriett Whitener Echols. He was predeceased by the love of his life, his wife of 61 years, Emma Sue Echols. Together, they raised 3 sons.

Mr. and Mrs. Echols were former residents of Smithfield,VA, and Lake Gaston, NC.

Leonard worked at the Newport News shipyard for 41 years and retired there as a Supervisor/Braising instructor. He loved to read, and it is doubtful that there is a Western that was ever made that he had not seen. He loved his years with Sue at Lake Gaston at their retirement home where they enjoyed golfing and were very active in the Lions Club. He could be found waterlogged at anytime from the hours spent in his pool and hot tub.

He is survived by his sons, Marvin(Rita), Alan(Shirley), and Alden(Carlene): his grandchildren Amanda(Aaron), Allison(Tom), Alan, Cliff(MaryAnn), Ashley(Lee), and Aaron: Step grandchildren, Gary, Cissy and Millie: and great grandchildren, Luke, Caroline, Nathan, Cody, Emmalyn, Zachary, Kayla, Nicole, plus 2 more on the way, and his sister Agnes Cabe.

A memorial service is planned for Tuesday February 3, 2015 at 1pm at Trinity United Methodist Church, Smithfield VA.

He was a real "salt of the earth" kind of guy. He was honest, hardworking, and he loved his family. He loved to tease and "aggravate", and would talk to anyone who came into his path. He was truly one of a kind. We will miss him always.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in his name be made to the American Lung Association or the American Heart Association. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.wrightfuneralhome.org.