James Bruce Atkinson
James Bruce Atkinson
James Bruce Atkinson of Largo, Florida passed away on Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at Bayfront Health in St. Petersburg, Florida following an unexpected accident at home.
He was born June 6, 1948 in Muncie, Indiana to Robert and Norma (Vanmatre) Atkinson. James was a graduate of Muncie Central High School class of 1967.
He had been a teacher at High Point Elementary in Largo, Forida. He also worked in the chaplain’s office at Bay Pines VA hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida. He served in the US army.
James enjoyed performing karaoke and was a lifelong super fan of Nascar. He did not let losing his sight stop him from playing golf. He even got the chance to snow ski with Tipper Gore. He successfully completed many college courses including a professional certification as a horticulturist.
James is survived by his loving wife Laconda (Hersley) Atkinson of Largo, Florida; his brothers, Robert (Helen) Atkinson of Almo, Kentucky, and Richard Atkinson of Muncie, Indiana; his children, William (Joyce) Smith of Pikeville, Angela (Maxwell) McCranie of Pine Hill, Alabama, Chelsea Oberle of Flagler Beach, FLorida; his grandchildren, Hunter Dae Whittaker. Ethan, Etzel, and Ender Oberle, Shalom, Kaleb, and Timothy Stanbridge. He had several cousins, nieces, and nephews. He is also survived by his beloved fur baby, Angel.
Services will be held at First Baptist Church of Indian Rocks, 12685 Ulmerton Road, Largo, Florida on April 22. Viewing will be from 10:00-11:00 a.m. with service from 11:00 a.m. to noon, and Interment will be immediately after. Glenwood Estates at 12501 Ulmerton Road will be hosting a luncheon afterward in the clubhouse.
