March 28, 2024, 80, Goldsboro —
George Sutton Atkinson, III, 80, passed away on Thursday, March 28, 2024, at his home. He gained his independence from the cares of this world to find rest and peace. George was born in Monterey, California on November 14, 1943, to the late George Sutton Atkinson, Jr. and Geraldine Dawkins Atkinson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Nancy A. Brenner.
After George was drafted into the United States Army, he proudly served his country during the Vietnam War. He was later employed with R.N. Rouse Construction Company in Goldsboro where George became a very valued employee, retiring after 42 years of service.
A faithful member of St. Luke United Methodist Church, George was dedicated to his Lord and his church family. He taught Sunday School, served as an usher, was a member of the Board of Trustees, and took great pleasure in working at the Christmas tree lot. For many years, he and Connie traveled with the church on mission trips, serving and helping others.
George was on the golf team at Terry Parker High School, in Jacksonville, Florida, and always enjoyed playing and watching golf. His love for golf also allowed him the opportunity to serve as a volunteer for many years with the U.S. Open Golf Championship in various cities around the country.
His warmth, generosity, and kind spirit were well-known and cherished by those he encountered throughout his life. He loved traditional country and bluegrass music, old cars, and sports and was a huge fan of the NC State Wolfpack. George enjoyed watching and attending NASCAR races and served as a volunteer on pit row on many occasions. Even in his declining health, he found joy in simple pleasures: visits from family and friends, and especially a Wolfpack win.
George lived a life of dedication to his family and friends and to his community. He served his community in many ways, especially in sports. George was a high school football referee for over 40 years. Many will remember him for always being fair in how he would call a game.
George and Connie raised a family and found enjoyment in camping, spending time with family, and, in their retirement years, traveling. They had a special bond that allowed them to endure whatever came their way.
The family will receive friends from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 5, 2024, in the fellowship hall at St. Luke United Methodist Church followed by a service to celebrate George’s memory at 11:00 a.m. in the sanctuary with Pastor Karl Grant, Rev. Ray Broadwell and Rev. Adam Seate officiating. Inurnment will be at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, April 8, 2024, in the Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery with military honors.
George is survived by his wife of 56 years, Connie Atkinson; and his children, Adelle Joyner Short and husband, Gary, Rhonda Lynn Ward and husband, David, and Reginald Joyner and wife, Angie.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in George’s memory to the charity of one’s choice or to
St. Luke United Methodist Church
1608 E. Pine Street
Goldsboro, NC 27530
