Sanders J Atkins

At the age of 19 Sandy enlisted into active military service with the United States Air Force. His military career began at Kessler Air Force Base in Mississippi, leading to assignments in Korea, Alaska, Nebraska, Tampa, Thailand and Arkansas. Throughout his 21 years of service, he held various titles including Vehicle Operations Supervisor, Chief of the Munitions Loading Team, Assistant Transportation Controller and several other roles. Sandy retired as a Staff Sergeant from the United States Air Force in 1972 while stationed at the Little Rock Air Force Base in Jacksonville, Arkansas. During his service he was awarded the Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal in recognition of his dedication and commitment to his country. During his military career Sandy met and married the love of his life Mrs. Gladys Underwood Atkins. The two wed on February 26, 1956 and together built a beautiful life full of love, faith and family. Sandy and Gladys welcomed their first child, Donald Franklin Atkins while stationed in Tampa and soon thereafter a baby girl, his pride, joy and favorite person- Joan Elizabeth. Following his military career Sandy returned his family home to Rome, Georgia where he began working for the City of Rome Water Treatment Plant. In 1987, Sandy earned his most cherished title of all- Papa - when his one and only granddaughter, Morgan, was born. He and Gladys were faithful members of the First Baptist Church of Lindale, where he was a member of the 'Grumpy Old Men' Sunday School class. He was also very active with the Triple L Senior Group and the church food pantry. One of Sandy's greatest joys was being out on the lake in his boat, fishing with some of his dearest friends- a pastime that brought him endless happiness and peace. If you knew Sandy at any point in his life, you knew these things to be true: above all, he loved his Savior, he was deeply devoted to his family, a wonderful friend, and he was one of the hardest workers. His kind heart and devoted spirit made him unforgettable to everyone he met. He was a friend to many, but most importantly, a friend of Jesus.

Along with parents, Sandy is preceded in death by his loving wife, Gladys Ruth Atkins; his son, Donald Franklin Atkins; eight siblings, Frank, James, Clyde, Opal, Ramie, Queen, Helen and Mozelle; and several nieces and nephews.

He is survived by his daughter, Joan Gentry of Rome, Georgia; adopted daughter, Gail Poole also of Rome; his only grandchild, Morgan Eubanks, husband Chad of Woodstock, Georgia; step-great grandson, Brooks Eubanks; one sister, Hilda Atkins Moore; and several nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends also survive.

A funeral service honoring Mr. Sanders J. Atkins will be held at one o'clock in the afternoon on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at the First Baptist Church of Lindale with Rev. Eric Welchel officiating. The family will receive friends from twelve o'clock noon until the service hour at the church.

Following funeral services, Mr. Atkins will be laid to rest with military honors in the Oaknoll Memorial Gardens of Rome.

In lieu of customary remembrances the family request donations be made to the First Baptist Church of Lindale Food Pantry.