Tommy L Echols

Tommy was born on September 11, 1946, to Nell Rinker. He was lovingly raised by G.L. Rinker, who was his father in every way that matters. G.L. gave Tommy the love, guidance, and foundation that helped shape the man he would become. The bond they shared was one of love, family, and devotion, and Tommy carried the values he learned from G.L. throughout his life.

Tommy was a caring, generous, and loving man who was known for his determination, loyalty, and faithfulness. He had a special love for children and found great joy in being surrounded by his family. When Tommy loved someone, he loved them wholeheartedly. He was a man people could depend on, and his family and friends knew they could count on him.

Family was one of the most important parts of Tommy's life. He leaves behind a family who will carry his memory forward and remember the many ways he touched their lives.

He is survived by his loving wife Cindy; five children: Shawn Echols and wife, Mandy, of Austin, Texas; Billy Strickland and wife, Leslie, of Columbus, Ohio; Jana Reed and Jai, of Fort Worth, Texas; Anthony Strickland and wife, Amanda, of Lubbock, Texas; and Jonathan Strickland and wife, Rebecca, of Peoria, Arizona.

Tommy was a proud grandfather and great-grandfather. He leaves behind eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, as well as his brother, Mike Echols of Cartwright, Oklahoma, and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

A Life of Service

Tommy proudly served his country in the United States Army from August 26, 1966, through August 8, 1969. During his military service, he was stationed in Korea, England, and Vietnam.

His service to our country was an important part of his life, and he remained proud of the time he spent serving alongside his fellow soldiers. Tommy was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with four Bronze Service Stars, and National Defense Service Medal.

Following his military service, Tommy continued a life of hard work and service. He worked for Dowell Oilfield Services, and later worked as a Traffic Signal Technician at the Texas Department of Transportation. Throughout his career, Tommy was known for his strong work ethic, determination, and willingness to get the job done.

Faith and Community

Tommy was a Baptist and valued his faith throughout his life. He also believed strongly in serving his community and others.

He was a Past Master of Mackenzie Masonic Lodge #1327, where he was part of a brotherhood dedicated to fellowship, service, and helping others. His involvement with the Masonic Lodge reflected the loyalty and commitment that were such important parts of his character.

The Things Tommy Loved

Tommy loved his family above all else. He especially loved children and cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He also had a lifelong love of baseball. His favorite team was the Texas Rangers, and following his team was one of the simple pleasures he enjoyed.

Tommy's caring nature, generosity, loyalty, and determination made him a special person to those who knew him. He had a way of making people feel that they mattered, and the memories he created with his family will be treasured for generations.

Remembering Tommy

Tommy's life was one of service, hard work, family, faith, and love.

He served his country, worked hard to provide for his family, served his community, and remained loyal to the people he cared about. He faced life's challenges with determination and never stopped caring for those around him.

He leaves behind more than memories. He leaves behind the example of a man who believed in being there for others, loving his family, remaining faithful, and giving generously of himself.

Tommy was preceded in death by his parents, G.L. and Nell Rinker.

He will be deeply missed by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, brother, nieces and nephews, extended family, friends, fellow veterans, Masonic brothers, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Though Tommy is no longer with us, his love, kindness, determination, loyalty, and generous spirit will continue to live on through the family he leaves behind and the many lives he touched.

May he rest in peace, and may his family find comfort in the love, memories, laughter, and many years they shared with him.

Service Information

Visitation

September 8, 2026

12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Celebration of Life

September 8, 2026

2:00 p.m.

Lake Ridge Chapel and Memorial Designers

6025 82nd Street

Lubbock, Texas

Family and friends are invited to join together to remember and celebrate Tommy's life, share memories, and honor the legacy of a man who gave so much to his country, his family, and his community.

In Lieu of Flowers

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Tommy's memory to Wounded Warrior Project, honoring his commitment to his fellow veterans and those who have served our country.