Ted Echols

Ted Echols of Cumming, GA, formerly of Atlanta, GA, passed away on Tuesday, March 10, 2009 from complications of a Heart Attack. Ted was born on September 26, 1931 in Atlanta, GA. and was a "true Buckhead Boy". He attended North Fulton High School and graduated in 1950. During his time at North Fulton, Ted was considered one of the "Greatest Athletes" in the State of Georgia. He excelled in both football and track. He received so many accomplishments in Track and Field, that one sports writer's headline read: "Everywhere you go, there's Ted Echols!" Ted set a standard that has not been surpassed, even to this day. But Ted's best victory at North Fulton was when he captured the love of his heart, then best friend, now wife, Ann Rary. Ted went on to receive an Athletic Scholarship in Football and Track at The University of Georgia, but a knee injury cut his college career short. Now, the real journey through life began; Ted and Ann were married on February 23, 1951.

If you ever met him, you would know that he left a lasting impression on you forever; his wittiness and awesome personality attracted people from all walks of life. Ted's strong work ethic and true "gift of gab" helped him to become an outstanding leader in Atlanta's grocery business. Ted's late father, Clifford Echols, was founder and CEO of Echols Majik Markets, one of the first chains of convenience stores, in the Atlanta area. One could say the grocery business was a natural fit for Ted. Ted became Vice President of Associate Groceries with oversight of over 500 independently owned stores. After Ted left Associated Groceries, he represented several other major food companies with great success. Finally, at the tender age of 76, Ted was able to retire.

Ted's greatest joy was being able to watch his three grandchildren play competitive sports. Their gifts and talents led them to play at the college level. His oldest grandchild, Kristy Brown, played basketball at Stetson University, where she was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame. His grandson, Kerry Brown, played football at Appalachian State University, where he received All-American Honors and the youngest grandchild, Tess Echols, is a Freshman at The University of Georgia where she is a member of the UGA Fastpitch Softball Team; Ted was their biggest fan!

He is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Virginia Ann Rary Echols. His son, Randy Echols (Belinda), his daughter, Lynn Brown (Bruce) and three grandchildren: Kristy Brown, Kerry Brown and Tess Echols. His mother, Kathleen Ethridge and sister, Virginia Paris and a host of nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his sister, Doris McKee and brother, Buddy Echols. "God threw away the mold when he made you; we will love you forever!"

Memorial Services will be held Saturday, March 14, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at the Johns Creek Baptist Church - 6910 McGinnis Ferry Rd., Alpharetta, GA 30005. In lieu of Flowers, the family has asked to make Donations to "Faith For Future Generations" c/o Johns Creek Baptist Church.

Ingram Funeral Home & Crematory, Cumming, Georgia will be in charge of arrangements. www.ingramfuneralhome