Oscar “Wayne” Echols, age 53, of Raleigh, NC died on November 15, 2017, from cancer, surrounded by the love of his family.

Wayne was born in Birmingham, Alabama to Willie and Florine Echols.

Wayne had a culinary arts degree and will be remembered for his love of cooking that he developed into a career as a manager at Bojangles. He was a bright and shining personality who lit up a room when he entered. Wayne was a smooth talker and used his love of language to encourage positivity for those around him. His energy was palpable, and his positive attitude was infectious, along with his radiant smile. While Wayne had a strong work ethic, he was also quick to offer his boisterous laugh.

Wayne was a beacon of strength and will be remembered as a loving husband and father. His happiest days were spent with his wife; the love of his life, Kandi. They enjoyed many anniversary trips to the mountains and always loved spending as much time together as they could. His most important job was being a role model to his children and grandchildren, he will be sorely missed.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Kandida; his mother, Florine; children, Zachery (Tori) Fowler, Kylie Fowler, Tré Echols and Aaron Syska; grandchildren, Katalina Syska, Bentley Fowler, and Jaxson Fowler; sister, Wanda (Carl) Hogan and brother, Ryan “O’Neal” Echols. He is preceded in death by his father Willie James Echols;one brother Willie James Echols III and grandmother, Rose Smith.