John Michael Atkins

John Michael Atkins MARION, Va. John Michael Atkins, 57, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, Dec. 2, 2010, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy Samuel and Virginia Pauline Atkins; and his father-in-law, Otis Long. Also going before him were his precious babies, John Wayne, April Suzanne, and Charles Samuel. What a joyous reunion they must have had when he entered heaven. Surviving Michael are his wife of 38 years, Rita Long Atkins; his son, Michael Fred Atkins and wife, Amanda; and his grandsons, Garet and Elijah. He affectionately called Garet, "Tank" and when Elijah was born, he was called "Half Pint". Michael also leaves two sisters and a brother, Dollie Van Hoy and husband, Wayne, Ann Perrotta and husband, Ray, Gerald Atkins and wife, Diane; and his mother-in-law, Hazel Long. There are many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, numerous foster children and friends including three long time friends, David McGlothlin, Rainey Cox, and Reggie Snider, who will miss him greatly. Michael was a proud American veteran who served 15 years in the United States Air Force. He achieved the rank of Tech Sergeant. Before joining the service, Michael had been an active member of the Marion Jaycees. After retirement from the service in 1995, he and his family returned to Marion and he worked at Merillat. He enjoyed the work and the many friends that he met there. At Michael's request, Rita and the family would like to express their deepest appreciation to Dr. Neal, Dr. Parker, Dr. Swan, and Dr. Tisdale who supported him on this journey with cancer and to the wonderful staff at Johnston Memorial Hospital and Hospice of Southwest Virginia who cared for him so kindly. Michael was a very giving person and he always wanted people to be happy and to get along. It was his last wish for all the people that he loved. Funeral services will be held at 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 4, 2010, at Bradley's Funeral Home in Marion, with Pastors Mark Totten and Tim Parker officiating. A graveside service with military honors being conducted by The Francis Marion VFW Post No. 4667 will be held at Mount Rose Cemetery in Glade Spring, Va. on Sunday at 2 p.m. The family will receive friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday at the funeral home. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.bradleysfh.com Bradley's Funeral Home of Marion, Virginia is serving the family.