Ernest Atkins passed away Sunday, August 9, 2026, at Liberty Nursing Center of Mansfield.
Born in Mansfield, Ernest was the son of Eugene Kelly and Johnnie Mae Atkins. He was a well-known and well-liked man who will be remembered for his lively personality, his love for others, and the joy he brought wherever he went.
In his younger years, Ernest was a boxer known by the nickname “K.O. Kelly.” His strength and determination in the ring were matched by his fun-loving spirit outside of it. Ernest loved to dance and had a lifelong appreciation for music. If there was a good song playing, chances were Ernest was enjoying every minute of it.
Ernest also became known for always carrying two cell phones with him, a little detail that family and friends will fondly remember and smile about. Above all, he was simply a good, all-around guy who enjoyed people and had a special place in his heart for children.
Ernest’s personality, love of music, dancing, and the many memories he created throughout his life will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his sisters, Vivian Roberts, Deborah (Calvin Williams) Boone, and Margaret (Horace) Wiggins; his nieces and nephews, Quache (Torrence) Spencer, Trey Wiggins, Morgan Wiggins, Precious Black, Jerome Black, Jeremy Black, Sidney Black, and Rikiji Bowles; his great-niece, Kamozye Bowles; and his great-great- niece and nephew, Kasen and Keilan.
Preceding him in death were his mother; his step-father, Rance Fuller; and brothers, Danny and Jerome.
There will be no public services observed. Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services by Wappner is honored to serve the Atkins family with their arrangements.
Words of condolence may be expressed at www.wappner.com
Funeral Home: Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services by Wappner
Website: www.wappner.com