William "Bill" Atkinson

William Russell Atkinson, 78, of Pomaria, died Sunday, June 16, 2024 at his home. 

Born in Tuberville, on November 29, 1945, he was the son of the late Edgar and Nita Beard Atkinson. Bill was a transmission specialist, retiring from Joe's Transmission in Newberry. He enjoyed rebuilding and restoring vintage cars and tractors. Bill also found pleasure working in his yard and with his flowers. He was a member of River Springs Church of Irmo where he enjoyed fellowship with the Senior Saints Life Group. 

Bill is survived by his wife of 54 years, Gayle Kunkle Atkinson; two sons, Rusty (Teresa) Rawls and Brandon Atkinson; one daughter, Lisa (Steve) Wilcox; and his adored grandchildren, Chelsea and BrayLee Rawls and Joshua and Audrey Wilcox. He is also survived by three beloved great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews.  

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings, Betty Osborne, and Bobby Joe, and Robert and Richard Atkinson. 

Memorial services will be conducted at 2:00 PM Wednesday, June 19, 2024 at the McSwain-Evans Funeral Home Chapel by the Rev. Nathan Stam. The family will receive friends following the service. Memorials may be made to River Springs Church, 1007 West Shady Grove Road, Irmo, SC 29063.