John Norman Atkinson

John Norman Atkinson, 86, of White Hall passed away Friday, March 3, 2023. Born and raised his entire life in Pine Bluff, he was the son of the late Charles and Norma Ellison Atkinson. John graduated from Pine Bluff High School in 1955 and was a member of Immanuel Baptist Church.

For many years of his adult life, John was known around town as the owner of Wilcox Amusement Party Store. He spent many weekends setting up moonwalks and carnival games. His surplus of snow cone machines and cotton candy machines provided countless smiles to the community. John was also a regular weekly customer of the local flea markets and had an uncanny eye for snagging bargains. His purchases ranged from chain saws to cases of laundry detergent to every tool you could imagine. Even if he had a particular tool, he always needed a spare in case it stopped working.

John is preceded in death by his parents; a son, John Allen Atkinson; a brother, Curtis Atkinson; and two sisters, Charlene Burns and Celia Birdwell.

Survivors include his loving wife of 63 years, Catherine Chambliss Atkinson; his two daughters, Sarah (Jeff) Bennett of Kingwood, Texas, and Ruth (Dan) Moore of Crestwood, Ky. He is also survived by seven grandchildren, Lauren (Frank) Atkinson Alexander of Conway, Reid (Cassy) Atkinson of Greenbrier; Catie and Kristen Bennett of Dallas, Texas, and Lindsey (Adam) Hendricks, and Anna and William Moore of Louisville, Ky. He also has five great-grandchildren, Carson, Cash, Addie, Caroline, and Georgie. He is also survived by his loyal dog, Bear.

The family is also grateful for the staff of Affinity Hospice and longtime family friend, Bill Beadle, for their countless hours of care and concern.

Memorial service will be Saturday, March 11, 2023, at 1:30 p.m. at Fuller Hale-South Funeral Chapel. Visitation will begin after the service until 3 p.m.

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