Mr. Atkins was born on Oct. 15, 1945 in Cedartown, a son of William Jesse Atkins Jr., and Annie Louise Atkins.
Before his retirement, he had been a dedicated employee of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co. for 33 years as a flight line inspector. He was a 30-year veteran of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace workers.
Mr. Atkins loved and enjoyed spending time with his family. He was a NASCAR fan and enjoyed his retirement. He was of the Baptist faith.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Carey Atkins.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years Sharron “Polly” Bentley Atkins; three daughters and sons-in-law, Connie Atkins Mason and husband, David, Trinia Atkins Hogg and husband, Jason, and Sharron Atkins Molock and husband, David; and a brother, Dennis Atkins.
He is also survived by seven grandchildren, and by nieces, nephews and other relatives.
Funeral services were held 2 p.m. Monday, June 4, 2012 from the Chapel of the Lester C. Litesey Funeral Home with Rev. Wayne Benefield and Pastor Judy Smith officiating. Interment was in the family lot of the Young’s Grove Cemetery.
Pallbearers were David Mason, Dylan Mason, Seth Mason, Jason Hogg, Jerry Collier and Jodie Rowell. Honorary pallbearers were Cade Mason, Harrison Hogg and Langston Hogg.
Extend personal condolences and sign the online guest book at www.liteseyfh.com.
The Lester C. Litesey Funeral Home of Cedartown was in charge of the arrangements.