James Alfred Atkins, Sr.

Life’s Sketch…

“I have fought a good fought. I have finished my course, I have kept the faith; Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only but unto all them also that love His appearing.”

~ II Timothy 4: 7-8

     On Monday, October 22, 1945, James Alfred Atkins, Sr. was born to the parentage of the late Delaware and Orine Waller Atkins, Jr. Being reared in a Christian home, James learned of the Lord and at the Salem Baptist Church of Emporia, Virginia, he accepted Christ and joined the ministry, at an early age. It was there that he was taught the Word of God and his spiritual gifts were nurtured.

     Not only was Christ important to the Atkins’ Family, but so was education. James received his formal education in the Greensville County Public School System, where he attended the R.R. Moton School and E. W. Wyatt High School of Emporia, Virginia.

     In 1965, James met and united in Holy Matrimony to the love of his life, Betty Mason. This union was blessed with the birth of three beautiful children, who were the joy of his heart. James was a meek and quiet man, yet compassionate. Although, he was not expressive of many words, he did what was required of him to be a good person. In our eyes he was “Amazing”.

     As life progressed, James saw the need to join the workforce and provide for his family. He did so by becoming gainfully employed, over the years with:  e Pepsi Cola Company, Kingsberry Homes, Boars’ Head and many other jobs. He worked until his health failed, which lead him to medically retire in 2000.

     James absolutely adored flowers. Being in the natural environment brought him much joy and felicity. He took great pride in his beautiful flower gardens. If someone gave him a plant, he would make time to nurture and grow it.

     “When peace like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll, Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul.” On Monday, January 27, 2020 , James Alfred Atkins, Sr., recalled the refrain “It is well, it is well with my soul” and crossed the great divide, exchanging life for eternal rest. James was a loving husband, an extraordinary father and grandfather and a warm-hearted gentleman, who was preceded in death by: two brothers, Troy Atkins and Alexander Atkins and one sister, VeEster Atkins Smith.

     Treasured memories of pure love and affection will remain with us forever, as we pass him to God’s keeping: his loving and devoted wife, Betty Mason Atkins; one daughter, Stephanie Atkins; two sons, James Atkins, Jr. and Percy Atkins all of Emporia, Virginia; five grandchildren, Shonta Mangrum, Crystal Mangrum, Traimaine Gillus, Cachi Smith and MiAngel Atkins; eleven great-grandchildren, SaRyha Freeman, ZyRiannah Freeman, Khole Turner, Somaya Doyle, Deviona Givens, Precious Turner, Chase Powell, Jewels Smalls, Meyion Smalls, Willow Smalls and Siah Pitt; one brother, Delaware Atkins, Jr. (Laura) of Riverhead, New York; two sisters, Dildred Jones and Lorine Lawson both of Emporia, Virginia; three aunts Julia Holmes, Evelyn Fleming and Alice Simmons all of Emporia, Virginia; one uncle, Ozell Powell (Linda); a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

The Management and Staff of Knox-High Mortuary, Inc. is privileged to provide

"Distinctive Services, With The Essence Of Excellence"

to the family of Mr. James Alfred Atkins, Sr.

We ask that you join us in remembering the family in both thought and prayer. 

 "Diligent in Business; Fervent in Spirit." - Romans: 12:11

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James Alfred Atkins, Sr., please visit our floral store.