James A Atkins

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his Saints.” - Psalm 116:15

James August “Jim” Atkins, 89, of Rochester Hills, died Wednesday, June 11, 2014.

He was born March 25, 1925 in Port Huron to Frank and Bertha Atkins and was a lifelong area resident. He married Louise Gordon on July 7, 1951 in Croswell. She died August 21, 2009.

Mr. Atkins was employed with Grand Trunk Western Railroad, retiring as a clerk in 1985 after 38 years of service. He served in the U.S. Navy. He was involved in baseball nearly his entire life, including playing semi-pro and trying out for the St. Louis Cardinals, coaching and managing. He was a born again Christian and a member of Community Baptist Church. Jim grew up playing pool, belonged to a bowling league and enjoyed golfing and fishing. He loved his family and was especially devoted to his wife.

He is survived by four children, Reta (Alan) Sparr of Indian Land, South Carolina, Franklin (Michele) Atkins of Knoxville, Tennessee, Shari (Timothy) LeJeune of Bristol, Connecticut and Lou Ann (Michael) Morton of Rochester Hills; 11 grandchildren; and five great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, Louis (Norma) Atkins.

Visitation will be 6-9 p.m. Friday in Pollock-Randall Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 14, 2014 in Pollock-Randall Funeral Home. Pastor Ed Villalba will officiate.

Burial will be in Kinney Cemetery, Clyde Township. Mr. Atkins’ grandsons will serve as pallbearers. Military honors will be conducted under the auspices of the U.S. Navy and the St. Clair County Allied Veterans Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions may be made to Life Action Ministries.