Herbert Taylor Atkinson

In Loving Memory of Herbert Taylor Atkinson
Herbert Taylor Atkinson, of Townsend, Delaware, passed away peacefully on October 29, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on June 17, 1932, in Wilmington, Delaware, Herb was the eldest child of the late Thomas Hills and Ica Dona Atkinson.
A proud patriot, Herb served three active years in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and continued his commitment to service with 33 years in the Delaware National Guard. He also dedicated over 18 years to the Middletown Police Force, serving both full-time and part-time. His professional journey included 34 years with Johnson Controls in Middletown, where he worked diligently until retirement.
Herb was a man of the outdoors. A passionate hunter and skilled marksman, he found joy in duck, goose, deer, squirrel, turkey and even crow hunting. His talent was recognized with multiple marksmanship trophies during his time in the National Guard. His love for firearms and the sport remained a lifelong interest.
Growing up on the family farm instilled in Herb a deep appreciation for hard work, nature, and faith. The farm was more than land-it was the heart of the Atkinson clan, a place of love and togetherness that Herb cherished throughout his life. His most fond memories were working on the farm and being close to the land.
Each year, Herb took pride in planting a large garden, not for personal gain, but to share its bounty with friends and family. He found simple joy in farming his land, especially using his beloved Ford tractor and the simple pleasure of mowing the lawn.
Herb's faith was central to driving how he treated people. He embraced Jesus as his Lord and Savior, which inspired his generous spirit and kind heart. Herb was part of the community of Eastern Shore Bible Baptist Church in the later part of his life. Always ready to lend a hand, Herb helped others quietly and selflessly, never asking anything in return. His compassion extended to his loyal black lab, Cody, who was his constant companion-often spotted riding shotgun with a fishing hat, bringing smiles to those who saw them.
Herb was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, James R. Atkinson, Richard H. Atkinson, Thomas Henry Atkinson and his sister-in-law Elaine Hall Atkinson along with his beloved dog, Cody.
He is survived by his wife and best friend, Janet, with whom he shared 63 years of marriage. Herb had promised Janet that he would make it past their anniversary so they could celebrate it together on October 20th – he kept his promise. He also leaves behind his sons, Herbert T. Atkinson Jr. (Lori) and William T. Atkinson (Virginia); five grandchildren-Megan, Kayla, Colby, Joshua, Shaun and a great-granddaughter, Harper. Herb is also survived by his sister, Betsy A. Segars (Steve), along with many nieces, nephews and cherished friends. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers who supported Herb over the past three years.
A celebration of Herb's life will be held on Friday, November 7th at Daniels & Hutchison Funeral Home, 212 N. Broad St., Middletown, DE 19709. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by a service at 11:00 AM. Burial with military honors will take place at Townsend Cemetery.
Herb's legacy of kindness, service, and love for family and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.