David L. "Tex" Atkinson

ATKINSON, David L. "Tex," departed this life peacefully at his Highland Springs home surrounded by his family on Saturday, September 5, 2015. He was welcomed into his heavenly home by his wife of 60 years, Helen Winter Atkinson. He leaves to cherish his memory his children, David Jr., Mary Lee Gay (Bery), Danny, Tommy (Linda), Carol Lewellyn, Becky, Barbara Lewis, Robbie (Megan), Amy Gustafson (Dave); grandchildren, Chip Gay (Michelle), Ginny Boland (Will), Andrew Gay (Chrissy), Shannon French (Mike), Patrick George, Allie, Kate and Claire Lewis, Hannah Atkinson, Caroline, Will and Molly Atkinson, Jordan Payne, Cassidy and Davis Gustafson; great-grandchildren, Caroline, Sarah, Molly and Ellie Gay, Billy Boland and Evie French. Tex was a lifelong member of Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 10; his work ethic, practicality and love of country were apparent to all. Devoted to Helen and his family, he lived his entire life on family property in Highland Springs. In retirement, Tex filled his days with family, cowboy shows, rooting for the Yankees and daily five-mile walks through Highland Springs and Sandston. His clever wit, teasing nature, storytelling and bright blue eyes will be missed by his children, grandchildren and many others. Tex valued his lifelong friendship with Dot and his more recent ones with Ms. B and Tiara; their love and compassion were also felt and appreciated by Tex's children. Visitation will be Wednesday, September 9, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m., at the Nelsen Funeral Home, 4650 S. Laburnum Ave. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10 a.m. Thursday, September 10, 2015, at Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2631 Pocahontas Trail, Quinton, Va., 23141. Burial will immediately follow in Washington Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 648, Quinton, Va. 23141. Online condolences may be made at www.nelsenrichmond.com.