Waverley Eugene Atkins

This is in honor of our loving father, Waverley Eugene Atkins, who passed away peacefully in his sleep at the expert LifeCare in Ruston Jan. 17, at age 76. The blessing of Gene’s life was a gift to us all and it continues to be magnified in the after-life with the Lord Jesus Christ.

Born Feb.7, 1938, to Robert and Mary Hellon Atkins in North Carolina, at an early age he was called by the Lord to become a missionary and interpreter to the deaf. He pursued this mission by graduating from Carson-Newman College and receiving a Masters from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. During this time he also met his lifelong love, Marie Goodwin, of Athens, whom he was married to for 52 years. They settled in Louisiana to raise a family.

While living in Shreveport, Gene managed a number of businesses including spending a decade working for Piccadilly’s Cafeteria, where he was beloved by many. Throughout his life, he continued his ministries and working with the deaf. Until his passing, he remained very active in the church, mentoring and guiding people toward the Word. No matter what Gene was doing in life it came with a smile and kindness from within to help people.
Survivors include his wife, Marie; son, Robert; three daughters, Mary and husband, Kevin Kortus, Gina Riggan and Esther Kennedy; 13 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews; as well as two sisters, Lounelle Van Horn of Wake County, North Carolina and LaRue Myatt of Northport, Alabama.

Gene was preceded in death by his mother, father and sister, Vann Mims of Wake County, North Carolina.

A celebration of Gene Atkins’ life will take place at his church, Apostolic Lighthouse Church in Minden, between 11 a.m. and noon on his birthday Feb. 7, with lunch to follow. All friends and family of this loving and humble man are welcomed with open arms. It will be a touching day of remembrance.