John Atkins

"For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:38-39 On January 20, 2020, John Willis Atkins was visited by the eternal angel of peace. He was born on July 5, 1944 to the late Willis and Mary E. Atkins. He had very little schooling. His life's work was brick masonry for many years. He liked making people laugh, was very generous with whatever he had, loved ironing his clothes, and having a sociable beverage with his family and friends. Later in life he was baptized and became a member of Mt. Nebo Baptist Church in Surry, VA. He leaves to cherish his loving memory his daughter, Valerie Artis (Preston) of Smithfield, VA, and his son Alphonso Atkins of Smithfield, VA; two grandchildren, Shadasha Williams Smithfield, VA and Terrell Ellis of Suitland, MD; two brothers,James Atkins (Barbara) of Smithfield, VA and McKinley ofChesapeake, VA; four sisters Joyce Atkins of Newport News, VA, Nancy Atkins of New York, NY, Audrey Atkins of Newport News, VA and Mable Leary (Walter) of Surry, VA. He also leaves many nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members and many friends who will miss him also. A precious one from us is gone, A voice we loved is still. A place is vacant in our home Which can never be filled. And after a lonely heartache, And many a silent tear, There will always be a beautiful memory Of one we loved so dear. A Celebration of Life Service will be held 1pm Saturday January 25, 2020 at Shivers Funeral Chapel. Viewing will take place Friday January 24,2020 from 4-7pm also at the Chapel. Professional Services entrusted to Shivers Funeral Chapel.

Burial Date January 25, 2020

A Celebration of Life Service will be held 1pm Saturday January 25, 2020 at Shivers Funeral Chapel. Viewing will take place Friday January 24,2020 from 4-7pm also at the Chapel. Professional Services entrusted to Shivers Funeral Chapel.