JAMES S. ATKINSON JR.
Aug. 11, 1975-May 31, 2010
MOUNT OLIVE -- Minister James Swindelle Atkinson Jr., 34, 108 Maggie Road, Mount Olive, N.C., was born Aug. 11, 1975, to the late James Swindelle Atkinson Sr. and Wilma Faye Smith Atkinson in Wayne County. He departed this pilgrim's journey May 31, 2010, at Wayne Memorial Hospital.
Jr., as he was affectionately called, attended Wayne County public schools and graduated from Eastern Wayne High School in 1993.
Upon graduation, Jr. enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served his country until 1998.
After his return to Goldsboro, he was inspired to work with the special needs population. Jr. enjoyed his profession.
In addition, in 1998, Jr. answered an awesome call from his Lord and savior Jesus Christ to go into the ministry. He remained faithful to this calling until his homegoing.
Jr. always was a quiet young man, never pretentious, just willing to serve.
James was preceded in passing by his father, James Swindelle Atkinson Sr.; two grandfathers, Willie L. Atkinson "Buck" and Lonnie Hicks Jr.; and uncle, Donald Atkinson "Duck."
Jr. is survived by his wife, LaDonna Robinson Atkinson; two children, son, DeMarcus Ja'Von Kelly, and daughter, Myah Ja'Nae Kelly; mother, Wilma Faye Smith Atkinson; a brother, Darryl Atkinson; grandparents, Geraldine Cox Atkinson and Willie Boyette; four aunts, Iris Dawson, Evelyn Stockie, Debra Sinclair and special aunt, Francis Moore; uncles, William Atkinson "Pro," Bryon (Evangeline) Atkinson, Shelton R. Dawson, Bernard Dawson and special uncle, Keith (Barbara) Smith; mother-in-law, Deloris Robinson; two brothers-in-law, Lynwood D. Robinson and Vincent B. (Angie) Pearsall; godparents, Ronnie (Diane) Parker, Willie (Walletta) Crawford and Robert (Doris) Atkinson; special friend, Tomaz Rivera; a great-great-aunt; and a host of other aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.
A visitation for Mr. Atkinson will be held Sunday, June 6, 2010, from 2 to 7 p.m. at E.M. Matthews Funeral Home and Cremations Inc.
Celebration of life services will be held at Deeper Life Church Ministries Monday, June 7, 2010, at 1 o'clock post meridian.
Following the formal services in the sanctuary, Mr. Atkinson's sacred vessel, along with his cherished family, will be escorted to Wayne Memorial Park for interment and committal rites. There, the United States military honor guard will render Mr. Atkinson his final military rites.
The sorrow that the Atkinson family has felt, having lost a precious jewel such as minister Atkinson, is immeasurable. However, all can find solace knowing that the same way the angels descended to James on Memorial Day and handed him with his golden keys, long white robe and golden slippers to join the heavenly host, our Heavenly Father will send comfort to all that loved James to placate them in the difficult days that lie ahead.
The family is receiving caring and compassionate service by E.M. Matthews Funeral Home and Cremations Inc.
(Pd)
Published in Obituaries on June 4, 2010 1:47 PM