William Mack Atkins, D.V.M., 81, died on Wednesday, November 19, 2014.
Dr. Atkins was born in Walker County, Ga., on February 19, 1933. He lived in Trion at a young age and then moved to LaFayette. Upon graduation from LaFayette High School, he attended the University of Georgia, obtaining a doctor of veterinary medicine degree in 1956. He was then commissioned as a first lieutenant and served in the Veterinary Medical Corps of the United States Army, stationed in numerous locations, including Fort Dix and Fort Monmouth. After completion of his active military service, Dr. Atkins returned to Chattanooga and opened the Brainerd Animal Hospital which he continued to operate until his death. In conjunction with his veterinary practice, he rescued and fostered hundreds of unwanted dogs and cats. Over the years, especially after he finished educating his two sons, he focused his practice and his resources upon caring for and adopting unwanted dogs and cats. This was his calling. Even at age 81 and in declining health, he still cared for seven cats and six dogs at his office and farm in Rock Spring, Ga., as well as numerous others at his companion's home. Dr. Atkins was a member of the American, Tennessee and Georgia Veterinary Medical Associations as well as the Brainerd Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by his longtime companion, Regina Burns, his parents, Hugh Richardson and Mary McWilliams Atkins and his sister, Barbara Atkins McArthur.
He is survived by his sons, Joseph Blackshear Atkins, Sr., and daughter-in-law, Marybeth Robertson Atkins of Marietta and William Richardson Atkins and daughter-in-law, Shannon Atkins of Roswell, as well as four grandchildren, Mary Sutherland Atkins, Joseph Blackshear Atkins, Jr., William Banks Atkins and Mary Inman Atkins, several cousins, nieces and nephews.
The family is deeply grateful for all who have helped Dr. Atkins over the years in caring for unwanted animals, for friends and neighbors who assisted him as he became infirm, and for the staff at Memorial Hospital, particularly in the CCU and Emergency Departments for attending to him during the last days of his life.
A graveside service will be on Saturday, Nov. 22, at 11:30 a.m. at the LaFayette Cemetery with Reverend Charles McElhaney officiating.
The family will receive friends on Saturday from 10-11:20 a.m. at the LaFayette Chapel of Wilson Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to the McKamey Animal Center, 4500 North Access Road, Chattanooga, Tn. 37415 in Dr. Atkins' memory.
Arrangements are by Wilson Funeral Homes – LaFayette Chapel, 706 638-1122.