Bradley Gene Atkinson

MITCHELL – Bradley Gene Atkinson, 83, passed away peacefully Monday, February 9, 2026, at Reid Health in Richmond, Indiana.

Born October 20, 1942, in Paoli, he was the son of Gene Alfred and Betty June (Mayden) Atkinson. He married Cheryl Lynn Nolen on March 21, 1964 and she preceded him in death November 10, 2017.

Brad was a 1960 graduate of Mitchell High School. He received his bachelor's degree from Indiana State University in 1965 and his master's degree from Indiana University as a specialist of education in 1979. Brad began his career teaching at Hanover High School, before working as a case manager and legislative liaison for the Indiana Department of Welfare. From 1974-1979 he was assistant principal at Burris Junior High School, then from 1979-1990 he was assistant principal at Edinburg Middle School. He was principal of Centerville-Abington Junior High School from 1991 until his retirement in 2003. Brad enjoyed fishing, golfing, debating, and telling stories – especially with a good martini. He was of the Christian faith and attended the Mitchell Presbyterian Church.

Surviving are his children, Jason Scott Atkinson of Memphis, Tennessee and James Gene "Chigger" (Lisa) Atkinson of Centerville; grandchildren, Charlene Cheryl Atkinson and Dustin Jorge Atkinson, both of Oberasbach, Germany; great-grandchild, Ryan Atkinson of Oberasbach, Germany; siblings, Patricia Ray (Monte Rager) Atkinson of Orleans, Amy Lynn (Rob) Parker of Mitchell, and Charlotte Rose (Buddy) Atkinson-Kirkman of Bedford; many beloved nieces and nephews; and his dear companion, Lynnette Hamilton of Mitchell.

His parents; wife; siblings, Jerry Wayne Atkinson and Eric Lee Atkinson; and brothers-in-law, Tim Nolen and Richard Nolen, preceded him in death.

Brad is remembered as a wonderful friend to all and will be dearly missed.

Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, February 15, in the Memorial Chapel of Chastain Funeral Home & Cremation Center with Reverend Herb W. Coates officiating. Cremation will follow.

Visitation will be from noon until the time of the service Sunday at the funeral home.

Memorial Donations: White River Humane Society