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Curtis Atkinson Obituary
In 1969, he joined U.S. Senator Herman Talmadge's staff as an administrative aide. Friends and family say Atkinson was the first African-American to work on a U.S. senator's administrative staff since Reconstruction.
"That's when he got into public service, and it was during that time that he really got involved in seeing to it that he helped in small business administration," said Aktinson's wife, Melvis Atkinson.
Melvis Atkinson said even her husband's personal life was spent helping others. Whenever someone asked for help, he made the effort to help that person.
When Max Cleland ran for secretary of state in the early 1980s, he appointed Atkinson assistant secretary of state. Atkinson was later deputy state director of Cleland's U.S. Senate office.
Curtis Lee Atkinson, of Atlanta, died June 26 at 83 years old. Read the news obituary
15 Entries
In Prayers and Love. I will miss seeing my friend and fussing about those Falsons and Saints. He will be missed. Candace Mayo and Yolanda Dozier.
July 9, 2014
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998
Rev. 21:3-4
July 9, 2014
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
July 8, 2014
Curtis was a very sweet, nice, kind friend who will be greatly missed. To my friend with our love...From Rolise and Larry
Louise Chambers-Strickland
July 6, 2014
Condolences to you and your family. Curtis was a friend as well as a "boss" to me during my tenure with Secretary of State where I served for many years as Personnel Director/Manager then Administrative Officer in the Investigative Section State Examining Boards.
Louise Chambers-Strickland
How you can show support
iC
July 6, 2014
To the family of Mr. Atkins, as time passes and you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
July 5, 2014
I first met Curtis in the 1970's when he worked for Senator Talmadge. Curtis was a pleasure. Although he lived in a time of upheaval and suffered unfairness and many slights, Curtis was always friendly and sincere to everyone. He was always helpful. Whenever I saw him or heard his name, I smiled. He was a great fellow. Farewell, Godspeed Curtis.
Judge Charles A. Pannell, Jr.
U. S. District Court
Northern District of Georgia
Greg Bailey
July 4, 2014
Melvis:
I thank you for your dedication and steadfast efforts in prolonging Curtis life. You demonstrated great love and devotion. Agape GTB
William Perry
July 4, 2014
Joy does not even begin to describe the upbeat feeling you had any time Curtis walked into a room. I loved his greeting of "Hey Man!", which was always followed by a strong handshake and a big hug, even if you had just seen him the day before. You couldn't help but smile when Curtis was around, and I will forever smile at the memory of him.
Irene Parland Hudgins
July 4, 2014
Words cannot adequately express the loss that we feel during this difficult time. Curtis showed so much love for family, especially the children. He was concerned about their well being, provided words of encouragement and support. We will miss his great sense of humor and hearty laughter, especially at family reunions.
Having been named for his mother Irene, who was my mother's oldest sister made me feel a special connection to Curtis, his sister and brothers. Joining me in reflecting on the precious memories of our dear cousin Curtis Atkinson are my siblings, Kenneth, Charleszetta, Martha, Carrie and the rest of the Parland family.
May the love we had for each other is cherished forever.
Frank ~ rev. 21:4
July 4, 2014
Sorry for your loss. May the God of all comfort be with you during this difficult time
sandra martin mungin
July 4, 2014
So sorry to learn of your lost. A legacy of helping others is so very true. A REAL pubic servant of integrity. He certainly has helped me.
Wayne & Nell Howell
July 4, 2014
Melvis,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Curtis was a good man and a great friend for many years. We will all miss him but our memories will last forever!
Reggie Williams
July 4, 2014
I join family and friends in celebrating the life of Curtis. He was a trailblazer in establishing meaningful biracial politics. And, during a time when cross-over politics should be examined as closely as ever, Curtis' wisdom and counsel will be sorely missed. Last, but not least, Curtis was a man of his word. Whatever he said could be considered as done.
Wendy Knox Cotton
July 4, 2014
Paying tribute to a remarkable man and dear friend of the family. My mother worked with him and Senator Max Cleland for many years when Mr. Cleland was Georgia's Secretary of State. Gave me a job in the Elections Division during my summer college days. He and his wife have always been so gracious to my Mom and our family. He will certainly be missed. Rest well, Mr. Atkinson. You served your family, community, state, and country with honor & distinction. From labor to reward!
The Staff of Willie A. Watkins, Inc. Historic West End Chapel
July 4, 2014
Offering our deepest condolences during this time.
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