John William Atkins, lovingly known as "Johnny" by his family, entered his heavenly home on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at the age of 84. Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Mobley-Groesbeck Funeral Service of Sand Springs.

A funeral service celebrating John's life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 22, at Sand Springs Church of Christ with Minister Elliot Dunn officiating. John will be laid to rest at Floral Haven Cemetery in Broken Arrow. Viewing will be held Monday from 12:00–8:00 p.m. at Mobley-Groesbeck Funeral Service, with family present to greet friends from 5:00–7:00 p.m.

John was born on November 10, 1940, in McCurtain, Oklahoma, in his family's home to John William Atkins and Dorothy Juanita (Nix) Gatewood. He grew up in McCurtain and graduated from McCurtain High School in 1959. A natural athlete, he played both baseball and basketball in high school. Though he dreamed of playing football, his school was too small for a team. To pursue baseball, he would travel to a nearby town—just one example of his determination and love for the game.

On September 3, 1959, John married the love of his life, Virginia Irene Nowlin, at their preacher's home in Poteau, Oklahoma. Together, they built a life in Tulsa, raising a family and making cherished memories. A talented athlete beyond his school years, John played as a catcher on a city league baseball team in Tulsa and later as a pitcher for a slow pitch softball team. He was known for his strength and upper body power on the field.

Professionally, John was a dedicated and dependable truck driver, retiring from Sinclair Oil Company after driving over a million miles without a single accident—an achievement for which he received special recognition. Over the years, he also worked for ABF Freight Lines, Dolly Madison, and Guys Chips. Even after retirement, he continued working for Sherwin-Williams in Sand Springs until he retired again.

John was a man of deep devotion—to his faith, to his family, and to his community. He was a longtime member of the Sand Springs Church of Christ and previously served as an elder and song leader at Home Gardens Church of Christ. He was the cornerstone of his family, leading with strength, kindness, and unwavering love.

Known as "Papa" to his grandchildren, John found joy in family gatherings and holidays. He especially loved preparing and cooking meals—his deep-fried hog jowl and black-eyed peas were a New Year's Eve tradition. He also enjoyed fishing, watching OU Sooners football and softball, professional wrestling (especially when attending matches with his daughter, Shasta), and action movies.

John was a strong, hardworking man with a giving heart—the biggest heart you could ever know. He was a natural leader, a bit stubborn at times, but always generous with his time, talents, and love.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Virginia Atkins of the home; daughters: Shasta Whittenburg and husband Raymond L., and Shondra Tribble and husband Bryan; sister, Rita Michaeli and husband Bill; grandchildren: Taylor Ray Whittenburg and wife Melissa, Savanna Irene Banks and husband Brandon, Olivia Sedwick, Lane Tribble and wife Becca, Jay William Tribble, and Elizabeth Tribble; great-grandchildren: Breanna, Riley, Isaac, Allison, Nora, Jack, Gabriel, Samuel, and Paisley; and niece, Brittany Beshoner.

John's legacy is one of love, laughter, strength, and unwavering dedication to those he cherished. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.