Obituaries

Sam Atkins, Jr., 88, transitioned from this earthly life Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at his home in Martinsville, Virginia. He was born October 4, 1936, in Mayodan, North Carolina to the late Sam A. Adkins and Ethel Tucker Adkins.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sisters, Elba Adkins Wilkins, Gayle Adkins Compton, Mary Belle Adkins Newman, Ruth Adkins Dodson; brothers, Warren Atkins, Melvin Adkins, Reid Adkins, Harrison Adkins, and Dean Adkins.

With an entrepreneur spirit, he started American Standard Homebuilders Company in 1978 where he was the dispatcher, and then in the 1980’s he opened a trailer park. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing and loved spending time with his grandchildren. His presence on this earth as a husband, father, brother, and grandfather will always be remembered by those who knew and loved him.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 24 years, Marilyn Loretta Braswell Atkins; daughters, Linda Gail Handy and Jennifer Marie Crigger, grandchildren, Brandon W. Martin, Heather M. Thompson, Justin N. Gregory, Lia D. Handy, Lauren M. Grady, William J. Grady, London K.M. Crigger, Kendra M.D. Handy, Aiden A. Boaz; five great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Services will be announced at a later date.

Wright Funeral Service & Crematory is serving the family.