James Franklin Atkinson Jr.

ATKINSON James Franklin Atkinson, Jr., a WWII Veteran, passed away on December 31, 2010. Beloved father of Serita Sue (Richard) McCleary of Indianapolis, IN and Regina Elizabeth Cordell of Ocala, FL. Grandfather of Rachel Nicole (Johnny) Preston, Devin Richard McCleary and Ryan Adam Marr. Great grandfather of Brianna Nicole Preston and Arianna Preston. Brother of Donald Talmadge (Jean) Atkinson of Vicksburg, MS, Frances Laverne (R.D.) Winn, the late Garnett Faye, Robert Edgar and Ralph Leigh Atkinson. Son of the late James Franklin Atkinson, Sr. and Margaret Leigh Garnett. Age 86 years. Mr. Atkinson was born March 29, 1924 in Vicksburg, MS and graduated from Satartia High School where he lettered in football. He attended Mississippi St. University for a year and a half before being called by the U.S. Army Reserves in 1942 serving as a Tec 5th grade in the 1383rd Engineer Petroleum Distribution Division. Returning to MSU after service, he graduated in 1946 with a BS in Agricultural Engineering and in 1955 with a Masters of Education majoring in Math with a minor in physics. Mr. Atkinson later graduated from Southern Seminary in Kentucky, served as pastor of First Baptist Church in Dwarf, KY, and pastored several churches in Covington, KY. He also graduated from Tulane University in 1972 with a Masters of Art in teaching in Math. J.F. worked as a high school math and science teacher for 20 years. For many years he was a member and served as a Deacon of Riverside Baptist Church. Mr. Atkinson is currently a member of Oak Park Baptist Church. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend a visitation at MOTHE FUNERAL HOME, 2100 Westbank Expy., Harvey, LA on Tuesday, January 4, 2011 from 6 PM until 9 PM during which a funeral service will begin at 7 PM. Interment will be in Glenwood Cemetery, Yazoo City, MS on Wednesday, January 5, 2011 with a committal service graveside at 1 PM.