Lloyd Hutson Atkinson

Lloyd Hutson Atkinson

Lloyd Hutson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, missionary, and pastor, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was 83 years old.

Born in Miami, FL, Lloyd dedicated his life to serving Christ through ministry. Together with his wife, Sue, he served as a missionary to Chile from 1972 to 1976 with the International Mission Board. Lloyd continued his service with the IMB in Richmond, VA, eventually becoming Vice President for Mission Personnel. In this role, he led the selection and sending of hundreds of global missionaries as they answered God's call to serve.

Throughout his career, Lloyd was known for his deep faith, steady leadership, and heart for helping others discern God's direction for their lives. Under his leadership, the IMB saw record growth in missionary appointments, a testament to both his administrative skill and his unwavering belief in the power of God's mission.

In addition, Lloyd pastored several churches in Virginia and touched countless lives through his preaching, teaching, and mentorship. He was a graduate of Carson-Newman College and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Lloyd is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Sue Jones Atkinson; their three children, John (Justine) Atkinson, Jennifer Rose, and Daniel Atkinson; and his seven grandchildren who lovingly knew him as "Granddaddy": Caroline, Charlotte, Betsy, and Caleb Rose, all of Roanoke, and Laney, Hayes, and Theo Atkinson, all of Richmond. He is also survived by his sister, Dale (Michael) Boyer, and his brother, Al (Linda) Erkhart, Jr.

He is preceded in death by his father, Jesse "Huttie" Atkinson, mother, Bessie Phillips, stepmother, Betty Chamberlain, and brother, Allen (Joan) Erkhart.

Lloyd's legacy of faith, wisdom, humor, and integrity lives on through his family and all who had the privilege to know him. Many will remember his strong voice in the pulpit, his thoughtful counsel, and his commitment to excellence. His family also fondly recalls his love of history and nature as well as his artistic ability. While they miss him deeply, they rejoice that he is now filled with joy and peace in the presence of his Savior.

A celebration of Lloyd's life will be held at Bon Air Baptist Church on Thursday, May 22, at 11 a.m., with a reception to follow. Visitation will take place at 10 a.m., in the church parlor.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the BABC Endowment Fund:bonairbaptist.org/endowment.