Gary Michael Atkins, age 84, of Southside passed away Wednesday, July 30, 2025. Funeral services were held at Collier-Butler Funeral Home on Tuesday, August 5. Rev. Lionel Fox will officiated.
Gary Michael Atkins was born on April 16, 1941, to his parents Dan B. Atkins, Jr. and Jimmie Ruth Atkins. Gary was raised in Gadsden with his siblings Tallulah (Tully) and Jimmie Dan Atkins. In 1959, he graduated from Gadsden High School and began working at Republic Steel. He was a devoted and loving father to his three daughters, Michele, Gina, and Amy. Gary was also a member of First United Methodist Church of Gadsden.
After retirement, Gary found himself wanting to get back to work and be in his community, so he became a currier for Lab Corp for several years. Gary enjoyed watching Alabama football and Atlanta Braves baseball, spending time with his family by the pool, and lunches with his classmates and friends, Gary adored his two dogs Bricky and Scooter, who were jokingly considered his favorite children. Gary was a proud grandfather to his grandchildren, Dylan, Mason, Grace, and Caitlin and great-grandsons, Llewelyn and August.
Gary will be remembered for his kindness, warmth, and dedication to his family and friends and will be greatly missed.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dan B. Atkins Jr. and Jimmie Ruth Atkins; brother, Jimmie Dan Atkins; and beloved daughter, Gina Atkins.
Gary is survived by his sister, Tallulah (Tully) Atkins; daughters, Michele Atkins (Shelby Cochran) and Amy Atkins Ward; grandchildren, Dylan Ward, Mason Atkins (Hannah Atkins), Grace Ward Standridge (Nicole Standridge), and Caitlin Clem; great-grandsons, Gary Llewelyn Atkins and August Michael Standridge.
Pallbearers were Dylan Ward, Mason Atkins, Monroe Holland, Lamar Smith, and Andy Smith.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Humane Society Pet Rescue and Adoption Center in Gadsden, AL or your favorite charity.
Special thanks to Gentiva Hospice and Riverview Regional Medical Center.
