Mr. Bobby Atkinson Sr

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” ~2 Timothy~ A life devoted to faith, family, and service came to a peaceful close on July 26, 2026, as Sergeant First Class (Ret.) Bobby Atkinson, Sr. peacefully went to sleep at his home in Indianapolis, Indiana, surrounded by his loving family. His strength, humility, deep love for God, and steadfast love for those he cherished leave behind a legacy that will continue for generations. Born on December 14, 1953, in Bethel, North Carolina (Pitt County), Bobby was the son of the late Margie Lou Atkinson and John Bert Brown. He graduated from North Pitt High School in 1973, beginning a journey that would be defined by honor, perseverance, compassion, and a life dedicated to serving others. Bobby’s greatest love story began on November 9, 1973, when he married Vera (Bullock) Hines, the love of his life. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, faith, and a commitment that stood the test of time. Anyone who knew Bobby knew how deeply he loved Vera and how proud he was of the family they built together. Their marriage became the foundation of a legacy that continues to live on through their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Shortly after graduating from high school, Bobby answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. What began as a commitment to provide for his growing family became a distinguished military career spanning more than twenty-two years. Rising to the rank of Sergeant First Class (SFC), Bobby faithfully served as an Airborne Infantryman before retiring honorably in 1995. Throughout his military career, Bobby earned the respect of those who served beside him through his leadership, integrity, and willingness to mentor others. Among his proudest accomplishments were earning the prestigious Master Parachutist Badge, the Combat Infantryman Badge, and the combat jump star affixed to his parachutist wings. Though he was proud of the honors he received, he treasured even more the lifelong friendships he built and the Soldiers whose lives he helped shape. Never one to stop learning, Bobby continued his education by earning a Bachelor of Science in Electronic Engineering from ITT Technical Institute. He later served as an ETS Supervisor for more than eight years before dedicating over fifteen years to a career in security. Whether serving his country or providing for his family, Bobby approached every responsibility with excellence, humility, and quiet determination. One of the greatest chapters of Bobby’s life began in 2016 when he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. From that moment forward, he embraced his faith wholeheartedly, becoming an avid and faithful Bible Study attendee both in person and online. Always setting the atmosphere with worship music, Bobby faithfully served at 28th Street Church of God in Christ, where his relationship with God continued to deepen through worship, fellowship, and service. As a member of the Tech Team, he willingly shared his engineering expertise and computer knowledge, using his gifts to support the ministry he loved. Bobby’s decision to follow Christ was a beautiful testament that God’s timing is always perfect, and His grace faithfully completes every story. His journey of faith remains an inspiration and a lasting reflection of God’s love and faithfulness. Those who knew Bobby will remember far more than his accomplishments. They will remember the man behind the uniform. He had a passion for computers and technology and was always eager to explore the newest gadgets. He never passed up the opportunity to enjoy a great steak, BBQ from Parker’s or some good ole’ country collards, skins and souse from the kitchen of his brother-in-love, Joe. He also loved discovering new restaurants with family and friends. Family gatherings often found Bobby behind the camera instead of in front of it, capturing the smiles, laughter, and memories that his family will cherish forever. He was known for his generous spirit, his wisdom, and his unforgettable sense of humor. His familiar words, “Y’all betta leave me alone,” could bring laughter to any room. More than anything, Bobby had a remarkable way of making people feel safe, protected, and deeply loved. Whether as a husband, father, Papa, brother, uncle, mentor, or friend, his presence brought comfort, strength, and joy to all who knew him. To those who loved him most, Bobby’s greatest accomplishments were never measured by medals, titles, or achievements. They were found in the family he cherished, the memories he preserved, the lives he touched, and the faith he embraced. His legacy is not only found in what he accomplished, but in the countless people who are better because they had the privilege of loving him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Margie Lou Atkinson and John Bert Brown; and his siblings, Tracy Clark and Shelby Tatum. He leaves to cherish his precious memory his beloved wife of 53 years, Vera Atkinson; his (4) children, Boris, Darren, and Bobby Jr. Atkinson, Deidre Mack (Aaron), god-son, Daniell Talamantes and god-daughter, Bre’Auna Catlin; his cherished (12) grandchildren, Jasmine A., Jasmine R., (twins) Mara and Meriah, Jada, (twins) Tyson and Tayvin, Brinley, Siyanna, Aaron, Jr., Aria , and Isla ; his treasured (6) great-grandchildren, Zayden, Kenzo, Jozie, Mina, Baylee, and Kendricks; his siblings, Shelton (Lisa), Stacy (Debra), and Terree (Karen) Clark, Carlton (Cheryl) Atkinson, and Gloristine Anderson; god-brothers, Joseph (Fannie) Atkinson and John “Tom” (Silvia) Hines and god-sister Rosa “Diane” (Owen) Burney; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins (who were more like brothers and sisters), extended family, dear friends, and all whose lives were forever touched by his kindness, wisdom, humor, and love. Sergeant First Class (Ret.) Bobby Atkinson, Sr. served his country with honor, led his family with love, and walked with the Lord in faith. Though his earthly mission has ended, his legacy of courage, integrity, and unconditional love lives on in every life he touched. His watch on earth is complete. His duty has been faithfully fulfilled, and his reward is eternal peace in the presence of his Lord and Savior. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” ~Matthew 25:21~

Mr. Bobby Atkinson Sr

December 14, 1953 - July 26, 2026