Mr. James Edwin Atkins, age 94 of Ridgeway, Virginia passed away peacefully at his home. He was born in Patrick County on October 30, 1929, to the late Ruben E. Atkins and Ollie Baliles Atkins. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one son, Michael Kent Atkins. Mr. Atkins faithfully served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War acquiring the rank of Staff Sergeant. He retired from Coca-Cola Bottling Company with over forty years of experience. He was a devoted member of Smith River Church of the Brethren, where he served as a deacon and board member. He loved hunting, fishing, working on the farm, and raising cattle.
Mr. Atkins is survived by his loving wife of 73 years, Edna Mae Wood Atkins of the home; one son, Gary Edwin Atkins and special friend, Becky Roberts of Horsepasture; four grandchildren, Misti Atkins of Portsmouth, Chris Atkins and wife, Susan of Spencer, Andy Atkins and wife, Casey of Spencer, and Hunter Atkins and wife, Sarah of Wilmington, North Carolina; eight grandchildren, Kenneth, Harlee, Aaron, Cam, McKenzie, Hailey, Easton, and Dallas; three sisters, Louise Simmons of Stuart, VA, Frances Sheppard of Mineral Springs, NC, and Donella Inman and husband, Thomas of Colfax, North Carolina; and several nieces and nephews.
The funeral service for Mr. Atkins will be held on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at Smith River Church of the Brethren with Pastor Danny Gilley officiating. Burial will follow in Woolwine Cemetery. The Patrick County Veterans Memorial Honor Guard will provide military rites. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Smith River Church of the Brethren, 2282 Bob White Road, Stuart, VA 24171 or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Moody Funeral Home in Stuart has been entrusted with the arrangements and online condolences may be sent by visiting www.moodyfuneralservices.com.
The family of James Edwin Atkins would like to express their gratitude to Amedisys Hospice, Care Advantage In Home Healthcare, Sodonia Willis, and Bonnie Freeman for all their acts of kindness and loving care.
