James Marion Atkinson

James Marion Atkinson passed away on Saturday Aug. 3, 2013 surrounded by family at his home in Dacula, Georgia after a lengthy illness.

He is survived by his loving wife Carol (Charli) Atkinson; children, Catherine Petway, Karen Atkinson, John Grzymkowski, Scott Grzymkowski, Sherri DeProspero Domenech and Kristin DeProspero Conkling. His siblings are Ann Martin of Lawrenceville, Ga. and Danny Atkinson of Glendale, AZ. He will be sorely missed by eleven grandchildren who were his pride and joy - Alex Atkinson, Nicolas and Elena Domenech, Jacob and Katie Grzymkowski, Sarah Murphy, Mike Nyitrai, Markus and Amanda Peek, and Jeremy and Madison Turner. He is also survived by many treasured relatives including uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews, and a great niece and great nephews.

His brother in law, Melvin (Marty) Martin was his closest and dearest friend for over 50 years. He will be missed by friends and neighbors.

James was born to James Augustus Atkinson and Alice Gibby Atkinson on January 20, 1939. During his early years they moved frequently as duty assignments changed for his father who served the United States Navy throughout his career. The Atkinson family served almost 90 years in the Navy collectively. James continued the family tradition and served in the United States Navy primarily in the Western Pacific and Asia. He returned to the Atlanta area and worked at American Can Company for a number of years. He then worked in commercial and residential construction until retiring from Beazer Homes in 2004.

After retirement, he continued his lifelong interest in history, reading, social and civic matters, and woodworking. He thoroughly enjoyed his family and held nothing more dearly than his grandchildren. His favorite thing to do was pack up his tools and head to one of the kids' homes with a new project in mind. He was a man of strong character who lived a full, vibrant life. In all things, he demonstrated commitment, courage, and integrity. Most of all he had a loving, gentle heart with a generous spirit that never quit.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances are welcomed for The Wounded Warrior Project,
P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas 66675. got@woundedwarriorproject.org mailto:got@woundedwarriorproject.org

Further information will be provided when final arrangements are made for interment at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Georgia later this month.



Funeral Home:
A.S. Turner
2773 N. Decatur Road
Decatur, GA
30033