Pete was born in Lynchburg June 6, 1933, to Porter and Hortense Echols. He graduated from E.C. Glass High School and attended the University of Virginia. He matriculated to medical school at UVA after three years of undergraduate study and received his medical degree in 1958.

After an internship at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, Fla., and a residency at Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital in New York, N.Y., he returned to Lynchburg where he practiced ophthalmology from 1962 to 1995.

Pete is survived by his wife of 67 years, June W. Echols; daughter, Susan E. Vieth (Tom); daughter, Laura B. Echols; son, Burks Echols (Ann Carter); and granddaughters Carter and Sarah.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, P.O. Box 807; Harpers Ferry, WV 25425-9988 or the Blue Ridge Chapter National Railway Historical Society; P.O. Box 11731; Lynchburg, VA 24506.

A funeral service and celebration of life will be held at the family farm in Rockbridge County in spring 2024.