Johnny Wayne Atkins

Mr. Johnny Wayne Atkins, 81, of Dobson, passed away peacefully on Thursday evening, October 2, 2025, at Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center in Winston-Salem, surrounded by his loving family.

Mr. Atkins was born February 2, 1944, in Surry County, one of eight children born to the late Merlin Grover and Alma Lewis Atkins.

Wayne was a proud graduate of Dobson High School (Class of 1961) and continued his education at Appalachian State University, where he earned a B.S. degree in business education. He later served his country honorably in the United States Army, stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War. Wayne carried with him a deep sense of service, both to his country and his community, and he firmly believed in helping those who were less fortunate.

Wayne was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He married the love of his life, Glenda Carter Atkins, with whom he shared 55 years of laughter, devotion, and cherished memories. Together, they built a family that was the pride and joy of his life.

After his marriage, Wayne began his career as the assistant director with the Housing Authority of Mount Airy and Redevelopment Commission. He later worked briefly with Gay and Taylor Insurance Adjusters before becoming a cost accountant for Wellington Synthetics. In May 1975, he became manager of the first ABC store in Surry County. On July 1, 1986, Wayne was appointed town administrator and later served as town manager following the resignation of Dobson’s first town manager, Bob Comer. Following his retirement as town manager, he continued his public service by being elected as a Dobson town commissioner.

His community involvement reflected his lifelong commitment to service. He was an active member of the Dobson Lions Club, where he served as first vice president and president. Wayne also helped organize Dobson VFW Post 7111 in 1987, was a former member of the Dobson Community Council, a member of the Mount Airy Elks Lodge, and a member of Piney Grove Baptist Church. He was also an avid golfer who enjoyed time with friends both on and off the course.

He is survived by his wife, Glenda Carter Atkins; his daughter and son-in-law, Emily and Keith Wilmoth; his son and daughter-in-law, Neil and Kristyn Atkins; and his treasured grandchildren, Mallory Wilmoth, Amelia Wilmoth, Madelyn Wilmoth, Greyson Atkins, Hudson Atkins, Crosby Atkins, and Bowie Atkins. Wayne is also survived by his sisters and brother-in-law, Effie Marion, Carol and Harold Bledsoe, and Kathy Robertson; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Bonnie and Larry Ingool; many nieces and nephews; and his extended family members and dear friends who will miss him deeply. A special nephew, Tim Atkins, will be remembered for his above-and-beyond care, especially over the past year. Wayne was longtime friends with Ralph Holt, Michael Frazier, Todd Dockery, Ores Barker, Danny Marion, Donnie Marion, Dale White, and many others. For years, you could find them at Sue’s Restaurant at breakfast time.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Atkins was preceded in death by an infant sister, Joanne Atkins; two sisters and three brothers-in-law, Jessie Stewart, Lessie and J.B. Brindle, Jim Marion, and Larry Robertson; and a brother and sister-in-law, Jimmy L. and Molly Atkins.

Wayne will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic, deep love for family, generosity, and the kindness he extended to everyone he met. His legacy of love, strength, and faith will continue to live on through every life he touched.

A service of worship and celebration of his life will be held Monday, October 13, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Piney Grove Baptist Church, with Dr. Van H. Lankford officiating. Inurnment will follow in the church cemetery, with military honors conducted by the VFW Memorial Honor Guard. The family will receive friends at the church from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM prior to the service.

The family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to all who have shared love, prayers, and support during Wayne’s illness and since his passing.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Piney Grove Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, P.O. Box 1022, Mount Airy, NC 27030; or the Dobson Lions Club, c/o Gene Everette, Treasurer, P.O. Box 473, Dobson, NC 27017.

Moody Funeral Services in Mount Airy is serving the family.