Imogene Thorpe Echols

Imogene Echols, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 24, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of faith, laughter, and love. She was reunited in Heaven with her husband, James Echols; parents, Gordon and Minnie Thorpe; and brothers, Harold and Doug Thorpe. Born on June 2, 1937, in Panama City, Florida, Imogene accepted the Lord as her Savior in January of 1948, beginning a lifelong walk with Christ that would define every chapter of her life. She graduated from Pensacola High School in 1955 and, later that year on September 30, 1955, married the love of her life, James D. Echols. Together, they shared 61 years of marriage filled with devotion, laughter, and shared purpose. Imogene's most cherished roles were those of wife and mother. A woman of many talents and an unwavering work ethic, she dedicated herself fully to everything she did. Over the years, she held a variety of positions, including telephone operator, florist, and Baptist Hospital employee. In recognition of her dedication and excellence, she was named Employee of the Year at Baptist Hospital in 1988. A self-taught pianist, Imogene began playing for her church at the age of 14 and remained a devoted church pianist for an incredible 74 years. Her music touched countless lives and was an enduring expression of her faith. Her creative spirit extended well beyond the piano. Imogene had a passion for painting—beautifying everything from wall murals to chairs to her kitchen cabinets, bringing joy and color to everyone around her. Gifted with a warm heart and a quick wit, Imogene travelled the country as a speaker and humorist, sharing her wisdom and wit at women’s events in churches far and wide. Her experiences and unique perspective inspired her to write and publish her book "I Wanna Be a Man", a reflection of her humor and her heart. Imogene is survived by her brother, Kenny Thorpe; her three children; Dennis Echols, Martha Restucher, and Brenda Echols; her five grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her faith, her laughter, and her legacy will live on in her children and in the hearts she touched. A celebration of Imogene’s life will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 11:00 am at Burgess Road Baptist Church (officiated by Pastor Cooley), where stories will be shared, hymns and Gospel songs will be played, and her remarkable life will be honored with the love and joy she so generously gave to others. Faith Chapel Funeral Home North, 1000 South Highway 29, Cantonment, is entrusted with arrangements. You may express condolences online at www.fcfhs.com.

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Imogene Thorpe Echols

June 2, 1937 - August 24, 2025