Edward Atkinson III

Memphis, TN

Edward Atkinson III passed away on Thursday, February 22, 2018. Edward was born in Memphis, TN, on Christmas Eve 1954 to Julia Watkins and George Atkinson Sr.

After graduating from Memphis University School with his beloved class of '73, Edward attended Southern Methodist University for his undergraduate degree and the University of Texas at Galveston for medical school. He then moved home to Memphis to attend the University of Tennessee for his residency in radiology. After completing his residency, Edward co-founded Diagnostic Imaging, where he had a long career as a respected radiologist-in addition to his freelance work as a family physician whenever friends or relatives called.

Edward married Margaret Erb, also of Memphis. They were married for 34 years and together raised three children.

Edward loved Ole Miss football, classic rock played at high volumes, history-particularly related to the Civil War or World War II, telling stories about his family from Mississippi, and duck hunting-likely because it provided ample time for stories with friends.

But Edward's greatest love was his family, and his goal-which he achieved in spades-was to make sure they knew how much he loved them. He is survived by his wife, Margaret; his three children, Oscar, Margaret, and Sayle; his daughter-in-law, Jocelyn, and his grandchildren, Walker, Vivian, and Stuart; his brother, George; and his sisters, Mimi Atkinson, Julie Jemison, and Amy Shreve; and many dear friends and relatives.

A memorial service to celebrate Edward's life will be held at Immanuel Episcopal Church in La Grange, TN, on Wednesday, February 28, at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to Immanuel Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 21, La Grange, TN, 38046, Memphis University School, or your favorite charity.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Commercial Appeal on Feb. 25, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Edward Atkinson

9 Entries

Scottie and David Spaulding

March 4, 2018

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Gregg Drew

March 1, 2018

So sorry to hear of Ed's passing, always a class act !

Phyneria Smith

February 28, 2018

To the family,
Words cannot even begin to express my sorrow. Dr. Atkinson was a very special man. His example of fatherhood was exemplary! One of my fondest memories of Dr. Atkinson was when I first began my teaching career. He was so proud of me. He came and presented to my 3rd graders his career choice. My students bubbled with enthusiasm. Dr. Atkinson will be truly missed but his legacy of transforming lives will live on.

Larry Del Papa

February 26, 2018

Ed and I were fraternity pledge brothers at SMU and we developed a very good friendship over the course of our time there. We were roommates for a semester in our senior year and after graduation I returned to my hometown of Galveston where Ed happened to go to medical school. Due to the demand of his studies, I didn't see him very often while he was in medical school and we eventually lost touch with each other over the years. Last year there was a concerted effort to get as many of our Beta pledge brothers back to SMU for our 40th reunion and that effort resulted in me and Ed reconnecting after all but one or two of those years. We talked a couple of times and got caught up on each other's lives, families, work, etc. I could tell he was very happy and fully involved with and committed to his family. I was disappointed that he was not able to make it to the reunion but happy that we were reconnected. I have many fond memories of fun times during college with Ed and I am greatly saddened by his passing at such a young age. He was such a good guy! I extend my prayers and sincere condolences to his family. God bless!

Dooley

February 26, 2018

Heart felt sympathies to the family. I worked with Dr A professionally at a urology clinic. Usually I was helping him with a technical issue, or we were training the radiologists for some new process in our practice. He had such a distinct voice while dictating reports.Sometimes I would just stand outside the door and listen to him enunciate because it was so unique. He was always friendly and engaging, we will miss seeing him.
Sincerest Sympathies and prayers to you, his dear family.

Janie Smith

February 26, 2018

Such a great man who has a dear wife and family. Margaret, I am praying for God's grace to carry you through this most difficult time. Much love goes out to you and your precious family. Janie, from Dr Shipmon's office.

Lauta Simmons Martin

February 25, 2018

My heart goes out to you and your family & all friends! God bless!

Nancy Turner

February 25, 2018

Margaret, you have my deepest sympathy. In my prayers you will remain. Sincerely, your neighbor, Nancy Turner

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