John Paul Atkins

ATKINS, Mr.

John Paul

John Paul Atkins, 85, Transitioned into Love on March 11, 2025 in Grand Haven, Michigan. He was born on December 26, 1939 in Dexter, Missouri to Nell and Andrew Atkins.

After working in the family dry goods business during high school, John embarked upon a lifetime of learning and accomplishment, receiving a Bachelor's degree in History from Memphis State University (MSU) in 1961; a Master's degree in Educational Administration from MSU in 1964; and, a Doctorate in Education from the University of Tennessee in 1968. In 1966, he was awarded a prestigious U.S. Office of Education fellowship enabling him to live and work in Washington D.C. for the 1966-67 school year.

John was a beloved high school teacher in Sarasota, Florida teaching at both both Sarasota and Riverview High Schools alongside his wife, Patricia. John primarily taught history, social studies and geography, and served four years as Principal of Booker High School. John and Patricia also taught together at several American Schools in Europe, including Prague and Antwerp; and, received a grant to travel to China to learn about Chinese life, culture, and educational systems, in return for making educational presentations about their experience upon their return to Sarasota. John's teaching and administration career spanned 34 years.

John was a man of many talents and interests, including foreign travel, painting landscapes, writing short stories, drawing pictures, the St. Louis Cardinals, German beer, useless trivia, Siesta Key, sneaking beer in his coffee mug, and visiting cathedrals and train stations across Europe.

John will be remembered for his wonderful sense of humor, his kindness towards others, and his upbeat personality.

SURVIVORS

John is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Patricia (Gray) Atkins; children, Laurie (Scott) West, Kevin (Karen) Atkins; David (Lori) Rhem, Susan (Dan) Rhem-Westhoff, Joseph Rhem; grandchildren, Scott, Jr. ( Shannon), Jonathan, Alex, Brandon, Jake (Jenny), Courtney (Ben), Tyler, Richard, Joseph, Mya, Catherine (Mike), Sarah (Rob), Mark (Lauren), Sam, Sarah, Danielle; and, great grandchildren, Lucy, Amelia, Luella, Izzy, Henry, Archer, Louis, Remi, and Addison.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Nell Atkins; and, by his brothers Andrew, Tom, and Guy.

Cremation will take place and no public services are planned.