Charles Richard Echols, 69, of Mt. Vernon, passed away Saturday evening, Oct. 14, 2017, at his home, in the loving care of his family and hospice angels.

He was born on October 8, 1948, in Mt. Vernon, the son of Charles E. “Chib” and Pauline L. (Pierson) Echols.

Mr. Echols attended Mt. Vernon Township High School and was a Vietnam Veteran of the US Army. He was also a member of the American Legion, Post #1193 in Bluford.

Mr. Echols is survived by a son, Bart Echols and wife April of Foley, Missouri; two daughters, Dawn Sommerville and husband Terry of Foley, Missouri, and Nicole Crawford and husband Tim of Mt. Vernon; five grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Also surviving are two brothers, Russell Echols and wide Diane of Texico, and Randy Echols and wife Susan of Mt. Vernon; and two sisters, Donna Arnett and husband Jack of Bluford, and Sharon Abbott and husband John of McLeansboro.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a granddaughter, Samantha Sommerville.

In keeping with his wishes, cremation rites have been accorded, and a graveside service with burial of his cremains will be held Friday, October 20, 2017, at 11:00 a.m., at Mt. Vernon Memorial Gardens, with Chaplin Ernie Collins officiating. Military rites will be accorded by American Legion Post #141, of Mt. Vernon.

Memorials may be made to American Legion Post #141 and will be accepted at the service or mailed to The Osborn Funeral Home, P.O. Box 130, Dix, IL 62830. Osborn Funeral Home in Dix is in charge of the arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.osbornfuneral.com or on the funeral home’s Facebook page.