William DuPree Atkinson, Sr., “Billy”, widower of Frances Jenkins Atkinson, was born in Brittons Neck, SC on November 30, 1927,and died peacefully at home on Sunday, May 10, 2026. He was proud to be the 8th child out of 10 to Carrie Belle Altman Atkinson and Ebbie Johnson Atkinson and was a foster son to Pauline Lawrence and James Frierson Atkinson. Spending his early years in Brittons Neck, Billy later moved to Mullins where he graduated from Mullins High School and later Clemson College. While at Clemson College (University) Billy was a member of the Tiger “Senior” Platoon, Pershing Rifles(National Honorary Military Society), Regimental Sergeant Major, “D” Company First Sergeant his Junior year, and Regimental Adjutant his Senior year. After graduating from Clemson with a degree in Animal Husbandry, he served as a Second Lieutenant in the US Army.

Billy served many years as President of the Federal Land Bank Association of Mullins, SC and later as a loan officer with Peoples Federal Savings and Loans(South State Bank) of Conway, SC. “Mr. Billy” loved helping people which was reflected in his dedication to ensuring that his clients were able to receive financing for their homes, farms, lands, equipment, and businesses. In addition to his career in banking, Billy took much pride and satisfaction being a farmer, raising cattle, taking care of his many feline and canine friends, and pulling for his Tigers.

Billy was a man of great faith, finding solace and guidance in his unwavering belief in God. He was a dedicated member of Macedonia UMC, where he actively volunteered, supported, and nurtured the spiritual growth of the church as he served as the Hut Class Sunday school teacher for over 40 years and was Administrative Board Chair. His love for the Lord shone through his every action and served as an inspiration to all who knew him, especially his children and grandchildren.

Billy was also known for his strong commitment to his community. He was a member of the Board of Directors for the following: SC Blue Cross Blue Shield, Coker College Trustees, Marion County Farm Bureau, and a charter member of the Pee Dee Academy Board of Directors. He was past President of the Jaycees and member of the Civitan Club. He was honored to be chosen as SC’s Outstanding Young Farmer in 1956.

However, above all, it was Billy’s devotion to his family that truly defined his character. He was blessed with a loving marriage to Frances Jenkins Atkinson, a true partner in life's journey for 72 years. Together, they created a beautiful family that brought them immense joy and fulfillment. Billy leaves behind four children: Frierson Atkinson, DuPree (Celia) Atkinson, Frank Atkinson, and Ann (Terry) Doran, six grandchildren; James (Sarah) Atkinson, Daniel Atkinson, Legare (John) Nettles, Will (Nicole) Atkinson, Catherine (Ryne) Slack, and Satcher (Katie) Bell, 13 great grandchildren; Gracyn Ball, Frances Atkinson, Margaret Atkinson, Collins Atkinson, Sawyer Atkinson, Elizabeth Nettles, June Bell, Ella Atkinson, Dylan Atkinson, Carrie Slack, John Nettles, Madeline Atkinson, Reese Slack, 2 special “daughters”, Bobbie Daniel and Kate (Edwin) Haskell, his beloved baby sister, Pauline Atkinson Edwards, and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife and parents, Billy was predeceased by the brothers and sisters he so adored: Miriam Atkinson Boulware, Francis Willard, Ellen Atkinson Fridy, Carrie Belle (CB) Atkinson Sells, Aldrich Altman “Trip”, John Quincy “Johnny”, Ebbie James “EJ”, and Gladys Atkinson Vinzani.

Never lived a man so dedicated to his work, his country, and all people in his life that he helped. His enthusiastic positive spirit and his faith have impacted lives far beyond the confines of his own. Love, self-sacrifice, helping others, and faith were the essence of his life. A man of God’s own making, a husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather who will never be forgotten.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 12, 2026, in the Fellowship Hall at Macedonia Methodist Church and at other times at the home of Billy Atkinson. A Celebration of Life will be held at Macedonia Methodist Church, Mullins beginning at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 13, 2026 with burial to follow at Cedardale Cemetery.

The family is grateful for the support and care provided by Sallie Ceo, Vernetta Farrish, Natalie Ware, Karen Reaves, and the late Mary Davis. Their dedication and kindness brought great comfort to Mr. Billy and his loved ones. Also, a grateful thanks to the staff of MSA Hospice Services for their compassion and professionalism especially his nurse, Judy Rogers and former nurses, Amy Altman and Ashley Hanna.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Mr. Billy to Macedonia Methodist Church, 402 N. Main St, Mullins, SC 29574, to the Billy and Frances Atkinson Scholarship Foundation at Pee Dee Academy, P. O. Box 449, Mullins, SC 29574, RYR1 Foundation, P.O. Box 13312, Pittsburgh, PA, 15243, or the charity of your choice.

An online guestbook is available at www.mearesfh.com.

Meares Funeral Home has been given the honor of serving the family.