William Jackson "Jack" Atkins

Mr. William Jackson “Jack” Atkins, 81, of Elberton, GA and former longtime resident of Sugar Hill, GA, husband of Tresa Faye Barrs Atkins, passed away on Saturday, June 22, 2024.

Jack was born in Clarkesville, GA on November 18, 1942, son of the late Ralph Stanley Atkins and Wallace Bennett Alley Atkins. He was a 1960 graduate of North Habersham High School, and owned and operated Sugar Hill Small Engines for over 40 years. Jack served the Sugar Hill community as a City Councilman for 18 years, and was a former lay minister in the Methodist Church. In his free time, “Papa Jack” enjoyed restoring antique farm tractors, and was always looking for the next best book to read. 

In addition to Faye, his wife of 64 years, he is survived by his children: Stan and Kelley Atkins of Sugar Hill, GA Jacqueline and Tom Sheldon of Jefferson, GA, and Rob and Denise Atkins of Elberton, GA; six grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and many others who considered Papa Jack as a parental figure.

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his siblings: Jessie Hyde, Ralph Atkins, Jr., and Sarah Holcombe. 

Memorial services celebrating Jack’s life will be conducted on Saturday, June 29, at 2:00p.m. in the Memorial Chapel of Berry Funeral Home, 1265 Washington Highway, Elberton, GA, with his grandson, Jeremy McMillian, officiating. The family will greet friends beginning at 1:00p.m. prior to the service.

Flowers are accepted and contributions may be made in his memory to the church of one’s choice. 

Those wish may sign the online guestbook at berryfh.com. 

Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton is respectfully in charge of arrangements for Mr. William Jackson “Jack” Atkins.