Walter Marion Atkins

Walter Marion Atkins, 85 of Des Arc, formerly of Los Angeles, Calif. died Thursday, Nov. 4, 2010 at White County Medical Center in Searcy, Ark. He was born in Des Arc on July 11, 1925 to the late Jim and Mary Belle Britt Atkins. Survivors include one son Jim Atkins, two grandchildren Cindy and Josh Atkins all of the Los Angeles area; two brothers Johnny William Atkins (Camden, Tenn.), Clifford Atkins (Cotton Plant, Ark.); five sisters Sadie McMahon (Huntsville, Texas); Cara Bradshaw (Cabot, Ark.); Patricia Burt (Wellsburg, N.Y.) Barbara White (Des Arc, Ark.); Bertie Fortner (Bryant, Ark.), and a host of nieces and nephews. Walter is preceded in death by his parents, and three brothers Calvin, Robert, and Ray Atkins. Walter served in the US Army during WW II. Afterwards, he settled in California where he retired from the Lockheed Martin Corporation. He became disabled following a stroke and lived several years in the V A Nursing Home in L.A. In 2004 he transfered to the Des Arc Nursing Home to be closer to his family and spend his final years surrounded by friends. Walter loved life, liked to joke and have fun. Rev. Jim West officiating. Pallbearers include nephews, Ray Twardeski, Michael White, Michael Atkins, Gary Matthews, Stuart Van Houten, and Brandy Branham. Visitation is Monday Nov. 8, 2010 from 1-2 p.m. at Garth Funeral Home in Des Arc, Ark. with funeral services immediately following visitation at 2 p.m. in Garth Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at Sandhill Cemetery in Des Arc. On-line guest register www.garthfuneralhome.com.