Martha Elizabeth “Betty” Spann Echols, 92, passed away on Sunday, April 24, 2022. Born May 26, 1929, she was the daughter of John Henry Spann and Martha Caroline Moore Spann. She was married to the late Robert Wootten Echols, Jr., for 69 years. She is survived by her three daughters, Sherry Bridges, Nancy (Jim) Johnson, and Ann (Philip) Messner; and her precious granddaughter, Ellen Elizabeth Bridges, as well as several nieces.
Betty was a lifelong resident of Gadsden and member of the First United Methodist Church. She was a 1947 graduate of Gadsden High School, involved in many clubs and was a Flag Swinger in the GHS band. After graduation, she worked at the American National Bank until her first child was born. She then became a stay at home mother and wife. She was active in civic and social organizations, including Gadsden Service Guild, Special Needs Children activities, Girl Scouts and Garden Club. Betty loved to play Bridge and MahJongg. Through the FUMC “Gift to Gadsden” program, she taught MahJongg for many years to the community with her family and friends. A true Southern lady, she was a beloved mother, grandmother, mother-in-law and friend. She will truly be missed.
The family would like to thank the wonderful caregivers who watched over our mother and loved her as their own: Joy Parker, Susie Brooks Eubanks, Mary Ann Dale, Teresa Contris, Cindy Johnson, Sha-Lee Regling, the late Laura Bell, and Brian Haskins, her Physical Therapist. We would also like to thank Amedisys Home Health, Encompass Hospice and Dr. Layla Wren.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Howell Erwin Medical Fund at the First United Methodist Church of Gadsden. Visitation will be held from 12:30 – 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 27, 2020 at the First United Methodist Church. Funeral service will follow at the church beginning at 2:00 p.m. with Reverends Sam Hayes and Philip Messner officiating. Graveside service to follow at Forest Cemetery. Collier-Butler Funeral Home will be in charge of the arrangements.
