Jimmy W. Atkins

Jimmy Wayne Atkins, 1938-2025

Jimmy Wayne Atkins, 87, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2025. He was a loving husband of 63 years to his wife, Kay, who preceded him in death by 3 years. Despite losing the love of his life, he continued to enjoy his time family and friends, sharing his favorite stories and memories. Born in Choate, Texas, to Carl Elmer and Ethel Irene (Bingham) Atkins, he loved reminiscing about fun times with aunts and uncles, cousins, and friends from Choate and Runge. He served in the Air Force in the late 50s, finally stationed in Roswell, New Mexico, when he married Kay. Jimmy was an employee of Koch Industries Refinery in Corpus Christi, Texas, for almost 40 years, retiring as Operation Supervisor. In retirement, he and Kay loved to travel, exploring the places that they had dreamed of visiting. Over the years, he spent his time volunteering with his church (First United Methodist Church of Portland), advocating for senior citizens in Portland, advising the church and city on various issues, and staying active in his neighborhood. Everyone loved his storytelling skills and sense of humor, bringing laughter to so many.

He and Kay created a warm home in Portland, Texas, and loved to see the rooms overflowing with children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. We will remember all the ways our father and grandfather filled our lives with joy—supporting our schooling and activities, telling his tall tales of family adventures, providing guidance and advice, and creating woodwork crafts with Mom for us. Surviving family includes Deborah (Joe) Murphy, Thad (Brenda) Atkins, and Wendy (Ward) Atkins-Sayre, grandchildren, James (Davina) Murphy, Glenn (Birdie) Sayre, Owen Sayre, Jeremy (Amy) Davis, CoLee (Giovanni) Reyes, Jordan (Ashley) Davis, Erica Davis, and great grandchildren, Jolani and Marcelina Murphy.

The family thanks his church family, neighbors, friends, and the staff of Portland’s Brookhaven and Pavilion Assisted Living for their support of our father and the family over the last few years.

A Memorial Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, June 9, 2025 at the First United Methodist Church in Portland.

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of the professionals at Winsteads’ Funeral Home. (361) 643-6564 www.winsteadsfuneralhome.com