Michael Barton Atkins of Emory, Rains County Texas, joined his Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, October 17, 2021.
He was born in Wichita Falls, Texas, on July 5, 1941. He graduated from East Texas State University and Texas A&M University with a Doctor of Education degree.
Michael was preceded in death by his father, David Lee Atkins; his mother, Juanita Mae Fanning Atkins; his brother, David Lynn Atkins; and his grandson, Carter.
He was married to Ellen Hathcox Atkins in 1966. Michael Atkins taught at Western Michigan University for 34 years and retired from the University as Dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences in 2005 and was a Professor Emeritus.
After retiring to Emory, Michael served as a board member for the Emergency Services District in Rains County and was a member of the Rains County Ham Club.
He is survived by his wife; sons, Brian C. Atkins and Kara Stephenson Atkins, and Bradley M. Atkins and Laura Burrows; and four grandsons, Nolen, Weston, Calvin and Alexander.
A memorial to honor Michael’s life will be held at a future date.