Rodney Gale Atkins was born on July 26, 1948 in Hattiesburg, Mississippi to the late Mazie Hensarling Atkins and Robert Buell Atkins. He attended Woodlawn High School until leaving to serve his country in the United States Army for 6 1\2 years during the Vietnam War. He was retired from Industrial Service and Supply, after working as an industrial air compressor mechanic for 36 years.
Rodney was a long time resident of Keithville, Louisiana. He enjoyed working in his shop and out in the yard. He especially liked planting an annual vegetable garden. When the kids were young, he looked forward to time spent on family vacations to the beach and camping. Most of all, he loved being Grandaddy and adored the time he spent setting up for his fireworks show with the grandkids every New Year's Eve.
Rodney passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, December 12, 2024 at the age of 76. He is preceded in death by his parents, Mazie and Robert Atkins, his daughter, Miranda Gale Atkins and his brother, Gary Atkins.
Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 44 years, Patsy King Atkins; his sister, Yvonne Hill (Butch); and his sister-in-law, Brenda Atkins (Gary-deceased). He is also survived by his step-son, Lee Fatherree (Heather); step- daughter, Melissa Kennedy (Craig); four grandchildren; two great grandchildren; a host of nieces and nephews; and also members of his wife’s family.
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held for Rodney on Monday, December 23, 2024, at 1:00 PM at the Pavilion at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, 8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport, Louisiana, 71108.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, https://www.mda.org/, in memory of Rodney's daughter, Mandy.
