Cecil Atkins, age 89, of Gallipolis, and formerly of St. Albans, died Sunday March 29, 2015 at the Holzer Assisted Living facility in Gallipolis. Born July 6, 1925 in Layland, Fayette County, West Virginia, he was the son of the late Thomas Curtis and Mary Kosnoski Atkins. In addition to his parents, Cecil was preceded in death by his son, Dale M. Atkins, and a brother, Alfred A. "Joe" Atkins.
Cecil graduated from Kingston High School and enlisted in the Army. He served in the 35th infantry division in France during World War II. He was on the front lines for a year, when he was wounded, necessitating the amputation of his left leg. He received numerous medals and commendations for his service, including the French Legion Medal of Honor, and a Purple Heart. His memoirs of his World War II experiences are on file at the National World War II Memorial and he was included in the 35th divisions, Living History Project. After his Honorable discharge from the Army, he married Ruby Thomas Atkins on August 1, 1946. He graduated from the Capitol City Business College and began a career as an accountant, working for several small local businesses and later for the WV Department of Highways as Director of Finance. He was a member of St. Peter's United Methodist Church and later attended Abney Street Church of God and Bible Center Church. He was the epitome of a Christian man and a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. His hobbies included golf and model railroading.
Cecil is survived by his wife, Ruby T. Atkins, daughter, Karen A. Wheeler of Pt. Pleasant, daughter in law, Vivian E. Atkins of Anderson, IN. grandson, Chris Atkins and his wife Shallen of McCordsville, IN. granddaughters, Katherine M. Phillips of Columbus, OH. and Kalena Wheeler of Pt. Pleasant, WV. great grandchildren, Savannah, Logan and Calvin Atkins of McCordsville, IN. sisters, Betty Price of Beckley, WV. Mary Ann Johnson of Greenville, TN. And several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be 2:00 PM. Thursday, April 2, 2015 in the Chapel at Cunningham Memorial Park in St. Albans, with Charles Thomas officiating. Friends may call at the chapel on Thursday from 1:00 PM. until the time of service. Military Funeral Honors will be presented in the chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the Union Mission, PO. Box 112 Charleston, WV. 25321 or to the Appalachian Bible College, 161 College Dr. Mt. Hope, WV. 25880.
Waugh-Halley-Wood Funeral Home in Gallipolis is assisting the family.
An online guest registry is available at waugh-halley-wood.com