David Randall "Randy" Atkins, 63, of Jacksonville, FL, died September 17, 2011, at his home following a long illness. Randy was born August 4, 1948 to Jean Atkinson Atkins and David S. Atkins, Jr. The oldest of three children, he attended Norwood Elementary, Kirby Smith Jr. High, and graduated from Andrew Jackson H.S. in 1966. He then attended Ricks College in Idaho and Brigham Young University in Utah. A faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Randy filled a two year mission to Australia. He was married to Edith Oliphant Atkins in 1978 in the Provo, Utah Temple. They have one daughter, Amanda Jean Atkins. Randy filled many callings in his church including teacher, scoutmaster, youth leader, Bishop's Counselor, Bishop, and was serving as a counselor in the Jacksonville Florida West Stake Presidency at the time of his death. His favorite calling was as a Father and Husband. Employed for 33 years at Consolidated Rigging and Marine Supply, Randy enjoyed golf and was a member of the Starke Golf and Country Club. He was an avid football fan and enjoyed many other sports. He was known for his ability to love people and make friends with everyone. Randy is survived by his wife, Edith Oliphant Atkins; his daughter, Amanda Jean Atkins; his father, David S. Atkins, Jr.; his sisters, J. Elaine Atkins and Carroll Atkins Peterson, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his mother, Jean Atkinson Atkins. Funeral services will be held at 10:00am, Thursday, September 22, 2011, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 461 Blanding Blvd. in Orange Park, FL. The family visitation to greet friends will be Wednesday, September 21, 2011, from 6-8pm at Hardage-Giddens Blanding Funeral, 5753 Blanding Blvd., Jacksonville, FL. Interment at Evergreen Cemetery (gate 6), 4535 Main St., Jacksonville, FL. Randy's heart was focused on God, his family, and service to others.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
February 21, 2023
Family
Buggar aka Carroll Lynn Atkins
My big brother Randy was my hero in many things in my life. We always had an understanding, a secret language between the two of us even until death. I love & miss him everyday but I understand & know that he´s in good hands with his family for now in Paradise. Until we meet again Bubba. I love you now & until forever! Love your lil sis, Buggar Lynn!!!
September 25, 2011
Paul Hale
I didn't know Randy as a man but I knew him as a boy at Kirby Smith Jr High school. I am sorry I didn't know him as a man. I can tell by reading all the messages that he was loved by many. My condolences to all.
September 25, 2011
Catherine L. Ford
This is Catherine Lorraine Ford. Randy's mother was my baby sister, a special lady. Randy has now gone to join her whom we lost in April 1974. What a wonderful reunion! I always knew that Randy was special too. As just a young boy and before he went on his mission, he would have a book reading and studying the gospel. I am so thankful that he is not suffering anymore. I know that he is in good hands. We all loved you so much, Randy! Hope to see you again soon. May Heavenly Father's choicest blessings be with you Edith, Amanda, Dave, Ernestine, Elaine and Carroll.
All my love forever, Aunt Lorraine
September 25, 2011
Gilberto Perez
When I first met Randy in jacksonville he show me the big persone,the father,the big friend we never forget he and his family we send condolences to Edith, Amanda,and all family Atkins will be in our heart and part of our family sincerely Gilberto and family from mexico
September 22, 2011
Ward Phelps
When I first met Randy he was Counselor to Bishop Taylor in Timaquana Ward in 1992. I immediately fell in love with the Ward because these two great men welcomed us like Family. Randy always gave those Great Big Bear Hugs and a Powerful Handshake. He is one of the reasons I am the Priesthood Holder I am today. I will miss his mentorship and friendship. I am blessed to have the honor to have known him. Edith, you and Amanda will always be in our hearts and part of our family. Sincerely, Ward Phelps and Family.
September 22, 2011
Karen Henderson
Edith and Amanda I just heard late last night about Randy and I was so shocked. Its seems just a few weeks ago I saw him and as always his arms went out for that hug and he said Hello Ms. Karen I am Randy Atkins and I am a Mormon....I am just at a loss for words to say how much I admired Randy he never failed to ask about my parents and my family he was such a wonderful example of what mankind should be. I know you will miss him and my prayers go out to you and your family.
September 22, 2011
Capt Mike Getchell Crowley Maritme
Ms Edith and Amanda, I was so sorry to hear of Randy' passing this past week. We had a professional relationship for the better part of my 30 years with Crowley Maritime, but with Randy, it was more like I was a close friend or family member than a customer. The Jacksonnville maritime community lost a good friend this week. He will be sorely missed.
September 22, 2011
Nathan Jarvis
Randy was one of kindest, most sincere men I have ever known. You need only spend a few minutes with him and you would feel a strong connection with him. I have always appreciated his friendship and counsel. He will be missed but I know he is where Heavenly Father needs him.
September 22, 2011
Billy Howell
I was very saddened to hear the news about Randy. I've had the privlege to know him over forty years. He was a dear friend to me and Vicki (Newton) in our early courting and marriage. Vicki grew up around him and loved the Atkinson family dearly. The last time I saw Randy was at Vicki's funeral where he spoke. His testiomony of the Saviour and knowledge of the gospel always touched and strengthend me. His humble, meek spirit was a calming force in a world of calamity.
Edith and Amanda, my heart and prayers go out to you and your family. Randy knew and I know you'll meet again in a better place. My deepest sympathy,
Billy Howell
September 22, 2011
Roger Merrill
I was always amazed at the ability of Randy not only to remember individuals names, but to remember their families names and where in the country they came from. I always felt like he genuinly cared for me when speaking with him, as I am sure all did. We are less without him.
September 22, 2011
Randy, Thanks for your life example. It was wonderful to always be able to have a wonderful conversation with you. Your advice and experience were always wonderful to have. You will be missed here on Earth, but we know you are doing valuable things. The Lundberg family asks heavens blessings on your family at this heart breaking time. Blessings to all. Keith, Lisa, Torry and Jane Lundberg
September 22, 2011
Sandi Waters
Randy is "home" now with our precious Lord. No more suffering, no more pain. I know he was a fine man and lived his life for God. Bless you Randy.
September 22, 2011
Sharon & Bucky Jacobs
Edith and Amanda, I'm so sorry for your great loss. Randy was one of the kindest men I have ever known. He was a great mentor in the gospel to me. His love shown brightly to every life he touched. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. Love and Hugs.
September 22, 2011
Gregory Denmark
"Hey Cuz, How are you?" Those words of greeting will forever echo fondly with the warm sound of cousin Randy's kind voice and loving heart.
My last personal memories of cousin Randy include playing a round of golf with him and my dad at the Cedar Hills golf course near Highland, Utah, and attending a BYU football game together in Provo, Utah, a couple of years back. He enjoyed golf, and he loved BYU football!
Cousin Randy also loved the Lord and he loved the word of the Lord as found in the scriptures. In Randy's honor, I share two of my favorite New Testament versus: Colossians 3:4 and 1 John 3:2.
In my experience, if there be anyone who will be like our Lord when He appears in glory, it will indeed be cousin Randy.
On behalf of my mother and father, Pat and Steve Denmark, and my brother and his family, Alan, Gwen, Kayli, Lilli, and Jackson, may I extend our condolences to Edith, Amanda, Uncle Junior, Elaine, Carroll, and all other friends and family members.
May you find peace and solace in the many fond memories of Randy, and comfort and joy in the knowledge that we will see him again.
--Greg Denmark, Lehi, Utah
--Your cuz, Patricia Lavonne and Steve Denmark, Saratoga Springs, Utah
--Alan and Gwen, Kayli, Lilli and Jackson Denmark, Eagle Mountain, Utah
September 21, 2011
Our sincere prays are extended to Mrs Atkins, daughter Amanda, Mr. Davis S. Atkins Jr., sisters Elaine and Carrol for the lost of your beloved David. Sincerely,
Johnny and Earlene Holden
September 21, 2011
Jane (Grindstaff) De Vors
Although I haven't seen Randy in 14 years. It has always been a comfort to me to know that his family owned the house that I grew up in. He knew my family from my childhood. And we all loved him from the time he was a teenager. I can just see my mom and dad hugging his neck to greet him now! Much love to you Edith, and your whole family. We will all meet again!
September 21, 2011
Mike Lee
With a hand shake and a hug I always enjoyed his friendship and mentoring as a Church leader. You will be missed, though we will meet again.
September 21, 2011
Lee & Mike Carroll
Randy, we will miss you and your sweet ways. Your love of people,learning, and serving have been an inspiration to me. We grew up together and you were so much fun! May our Savior provide the peace he has promised to Edith and Amanda as you fulfill your mission in your new area.
Edith and Amanda, you are loved!
September 21, 2011
A good friend and a great Blessing in my life. Bishop Howard C Booth
September 21, 2011
Janet Wilkinson Howard
Elaine and family, so sorry to hear of Randy's passing. He was a awesome person and friend to all who knew him. My prayers are with you at this time of sorrow
September 20, 2011
Even though I haven't been a member of the ward in Jacksonville for eight years, I remember your family fondly and am so sorry to hear of your loss. I will remember you in my prayers. There is light at the end of this tunnel - a glorious reunion at some future date. Love you always, Gail Boaz
September 20, 2011
Connie L Hicks
My prayers go out to Randy's family. He was very special to us in the singles program. He was always supportive and will be missed by all. He has a heart of gold and the love of his Saviour for us all.
September 20, 2011
Nadine Lee
Edith,
I am so very sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
September 20, 2011
Tommy Arnold
I am very sorry to hear of Randy's passing.We all know he's in a much better place without pain and suffering.You are all in my prayer's.
September 20, 2011
Jackie Lewis
I am so grateful for our Savior Jesus Christ for his loving sacrifice for all of us; and going ahead of us to prepare a lovely place for our loved one's like our dear and precious Randy Atkins. I know Randy is in his presence and asking what he can do to continue in serving our Lord...he didn't let grass grow under his feet here on earth...and I know he will not let it grow under him now...I know he is continue's to be about our Fathers work. I am thankful to have had the special opportunity to know you Randy. Love and Hugs until we meet again :) ~~~
September 20, 2011
Linda Duty
Bro. Atkins has some great blessings waiting for him and in store for your family. He was so supportive of our singles programs and was just an all-around great leader. Thanks for sharing him with us. I will miss his service and caring attitude. You're in my prayers.
September 20, 2011
Barbara Smith
Edith and Amanda, my prayers are with you and you are in my heart, as is Randy, always. What a great man. A true saint. My deepest sympathy to you and my love.
September 20, 2011
Doris Purvis
I spoke with Randy often on the phone doing business(Fulghum Industries). He was a prince of a guy. I work with many vendors and Randy was one of my favorites. He will truly be missed. My heart goes out to all of his family and close friends. I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers.
September 20, 2011
TO THE ATKINS FAMILY, IT IS ALWAYS HARD TO EXPRESS INTO WORDS HOW YOU FEEL WHEN YOU LOSE SOMEONE, BUT AFTER READING ALL THESE AKNOWLEDGMENTS THEY ARE SO SO ACCURATE. RANDY ALWAYS SHOWED ME FRIENDSHIP AND KINDNESS AND I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER AND MISS HIM DEARLY. CAROL MIMS
September 20, 2011
Richard Jordan
Randy was a true gentleman and a pleasure ... he never had a foul word about anyone. I enjoyed interacting with him in business and also college football. Randy was a die hard BYU Cougar, myself a Notre Dame fan, we shared jabs.. Randy will be deeply missed
September 20, 2011
Donna Sharpe Crowther
To the Atkins Family, May you find peace in the love you shared with Randy throughout his time here on earth. My love to you all.
September 20, 2011
Mark Cregger
September 20, 2011
Lisa Kempster
Randy was a very special kind of person. He never met a stranger and always made you feel like a life long friend. His wisdom was inspiring. His friendship a true gift. His love for others unending. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and also my gratitude for sharing him with the rest of us. Blessings.
September 20, 2011
Melanie
Randy, I will never forget you or your kindness.
September 20, 2011
Hazel Booth
President Atkins will be missed. You and your family are in my prayers
September 20, 2011
J. ELAINE ATKINS
GOODBYE FOR NOW, MY DEAR, LOVING BROTHER: I WILL MISS YOU VERY MUCH.
September 20, 2011
Steve Arnold
I am so sorry for your loss. As I beleive it Randy was called home and he is in Heaven. His job on this earth was done. He had a blessed life and the rewards are now his. God bless you all.
Steve Arnold and Family
September 20, 2011
Julie-Ann Buchman
I'm so grateful for the love Randy has always shown me. I'm thankful to be a part of his family. He always said, "Hi Cuz" everytime you saw him and gave you a big warm hug. Randy always had time to talk to you and I don't think he ever met a stranger. I would say that Randy was our "family patriarch" - giving comfort and smiles when needed, reading the Story of Jesus' birth at family Christmas parties, answering gospel questions and keeping you up to date on BYU Football. I love you so much, Edith and Amanda. You've been in our prayers night and day. Randy will ALWAYS hold a dear place in my heart.
September 20, 2011
Rosemary Lindsey
Edith and Amanda, my condolences to you and the family in your loss. Randy will surely be missed, but has a great mission, still yet. He never met a stranger and loved everyone. He walked the walk and talked the talk in the footsteps of the Savior, his savior. He never judged, only loved. I know he treasured you both. I send to you my love and heartfelt sympathy during this time.
September 19, 2011
Carol & Steve Wagner (Cheshire)
Having a hard time trying to type the feelings in my heart. Randy was an example to so many and a true friend; always there for a hug or handshake. And he knew you - no matter when you last saw each other - you weren't just a name, you were known & important to him.
He loves you both and we love you! Our prayers are with you at this difficult time. We love you!!
September 19, 2011
Carol Jammes Smith
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
September 19, 2011
Tonya&David Russell
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
September 19, 2011
Nelson Brown
I first met Randy in 1963 when I joined the church. We had many good times together. He helped me learn the gospel. I will treasure his friendship forever.
Randy was the best man at my wedding reception and witnessed my wedding in the Salt Lake Temple
May you find peace and happiness as described in D&C 138. Your work is not finished. We will miss you.
September 19, 2011
Jim Meadows
Randy will be deaply missed by all. He was always there with a good comment and a Big smile...
Showing 1 - 44 of 44 results
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more