David H. Atkins

David Horace Atkins born April 30th, 1934 in Tulsa Oklahoma went home to be with the Lord on November 12th, 2022. He is survived by his wife of 61 years Marion Atkins; two children Jonathan S. Atkins (Susan) and Jennifer A. Ferguson (Spencer Hale) along with four grandchildren, Sara E. Atkins (Eli Sharon), Samuel R. Atkins, Russell D. Ferguson, and Catherine M. Ferguson. He was preceded in death by his parents Lorenzo and Mariana Atkins and his brother Michael Atkins. David was a graduate of Will Rodgers High School, Tulsa Oklahoma, Class of 1953, where he lettered in long-distance running. After high school, David attended Oklahoma State University, Stillwater Oklahoma, and the Class of 1958. While at OSU he enjoyed being a brother of Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity and a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. He also enjoyed many other activities of campus life. After college, David served two years in the United States Army at Fort Jackson South Carolina. At the completion of his military service, David moved to New Jersey where he started a lifelong career as a Mechanical Engineer, P.E. in the telephone industry. After moving to New Jersey, he met and married Marion; they married in 1961 and had two children. During his years with the telephone company, he worked in Baltimore, Maryland, and then in Columbia, South Carolina where he retired. After retirement from the telephone industry, he worked at Richland Memorial Hospital as a Horticulturist for over ten years. During his years in New Jersey, Maryland, and South Carolina he was a member of the Sons of the American Revolution and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Once in South Carolina, he became an active member at Westminster Presbyterian Church where he enjoyed working with the youth in activities such as Habitat for Humanity. He was also an active member and past president of the Dutch Fork Civitan Club where he also served in many other leadership roles. David also enjoyed many other hobbies including woodworking, swimming, golfing, reading, and especially growing roses. We would also like to thank all caregivers who lovingly cared for our father over the past couple of years at Always Best Care Senior Services, Halcyon Hospice, and Laurel Crest Retirement Community. David had a very active and full life; he will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Fly high Dad, we love you and miss you! A celebration of life ceremony will be held at Westminster Presbyterian Church on Saturday, December 3rd, 2022; family visitation from 10 am to 11 am, and a service at 11 am. In lieu of flowers please donate to the American Diabetes Association of South Carolina, and Leeza’s Care Connection in Columbia, South Carolina.