MANSFIELD: Dave Atkins leaves an imprint that simply cannot be erased; a legacy of family devotion, and devotion to his Savior, Jesus, through ministry and missions. No longer bound by his tired and weakened physical body, Dave’s spirit never wavered and is now stronger than ever. David C. Atkins, 71, of Mansfield passed into the arms of his Savior, Sunday, April 21, 2024 following an extended illness.
The son of Charles and Mary Anna (Jeffery) Atkins, David was born April 9, 1953 in Cincinnati. A Lexington High School graduate, Dave then graduated from Grace College, earned his Master’s Degree from Ashland Theological Seminary and his Doctorate from Colorado Theological Seminary. Serving in the ministry for nearly 50 years, Dave was an active pastor for Grace Brethren Churches. He was recently attending Olive Tree Christian Fellowship.
It was at church that he first met Joyce Risser. The two were married on December 29, 1973 and celebrated 50 years of marriage.
It was on his first mission trip to Thailand that Dave realized more could be done to serve, love, and equip the children, especially young ladies, of Thailand and Cambodia. Founder and Director of Sending Hope International, Dave’s work helped bring forth orphan homes, student centers, and love and security to the children. His goal was to rescue girls from human trafficking and provide a safe space for them as well. With his vision, and help from friends and the Holy Spirit, numerous lives have been changed. Dave’s legacy will continue to many of the children of Thailand and Cambodia.
Dave also had an appreciation for music, fast cars and rumbling motorcycles. Born into a musical family, he played guitar for numerous bands over the years. Another of his loves was Corvettes. Dave acquired at least 12 over the years. When time allowed he loved the freedom felt from riding on either one of his Harley, Yamaha or Honda motorcycles.
He was a visionary who loved discipleship. Dave will be remembered for his sense of humor, love of family and being a Papa to his grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife Joyce Atkins; children Joshua (Amber) Atkins of Clarksville, Tennessee and Amanda Atkins of Dalton; grandchildren Olivia and Lincoln Atkins; siblings Dan (Lori) Atkins of Lexington, Jane Hicks (Bruce Morrison) of Wooster and Luke (Sherry) Wheeler of South Carolina; brother-in-law Les Kanis; as well as nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.
Along with his parents he was preceded in death by his sister Laurie Kanis.
Visitation will be held Friday, April 26, 2024 from 10 am – 12 pm in the Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home where funeral services celebrating Dave’s life will begin at 12 noon. Pastor Kenny Morgan will officiate. Dave will be placed in the mausoleum at Oak Grove Memorial Park immediately following his funeral service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Sending Hope International.
Online condolences may be made by visiting:SnyderFuneralHomes.com
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com