Gregory Hale Atkins

Mr. Gregory Hale Atkins passed away peacefully in his sleep Monday, April 8, 2013, having lived a full and active life as a husband, father, grandfather, brother, educator and school administrator, World War II Navy veteran, good neighbor and friend.

Greg was born to Alfred T. Atkins and Helen M. Atkins June 26, 1925, and grew up in Blytheville. He graduated from Blytheville High School and after a three year hiatus for World War II, attended and received Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Education from the University of Arkansas. He touched thousands of lives as he worked for the Tulsa Public Schools for 35 years as a Junior High/Middle School Teacher, Counselor and Assistant Principal.

Greg was predeceased by his wife and life partner of 63 years, Jo Ann Riedel Atkins, and his daughter, Gaelle Ann Atkins.

He is survived by one sister, Rae Ann Stone of Fontana;

One brother, Patrick Atkins and his wife Ina of Cedar City;

One daughter, Wendy Atkins of Smithville;

One son, Mike Atkins and his wife Patricia; and

Three grandchildren, Mary of Houston, and Michelle and Michael of Bellaire.

A memorial service was held at 4 p.m. Saturday at the Clarewood House Chapel in Houston. Chaplain Thomas Hill officiated.

Greg's family is grateful for the care and attention he received from the staff during his stay at the Clarewood House. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that people consider making a donation to the American Diabetes Association in his honor.