In Memory of

Class of 1989
Jul 24, 1971 - Jul 08, 2013

Christopher Martin (Chris) Atkins, 41, of San Francisco, Calif., and formerly of Roanoke, Va., passed away suddenly on Monday, July 8, 2013. He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Patricia Martin Atkins; and grandparents, John and Rena Atkins, and George and Dixie Martin. Chris is survived by his father, John R. "Bill" Atkins Jr.; sisters, Tina All (Steve), Terri "TA" Atkins, and Lorri Van Dam (Jon); twin brother, Craig Atkins (Tonya); nephews, Patrick All (Bryana), and Caleb Atkins; nieces, Lindsay All and Mary Grace Atkins; great- nephew, Bryson All; aunts, Betty Grimm, Joyce Chapman, and Barbara Atkins; uncle, Rayburn Atkins; as well as many cousins and extended family.Chris was born on July 24, 1971, in Roanoke, Va. He was a loving son, brother and friend. He graduated from William Byrd High School in 1989 and attended James Madison University. Chris was a very creative and successful graphic layout and design artist who followed his career to Norfolk, Va., then to San Francisco, Calif., where he established himself as a managing partner at ClubCard, a very well respected shop in the city. Chris was a born leader who mentored many artists and employees and had a reputation for recognizing and discovering talent. His influence will live on and continue to inspire his family, co-workers, clients and friends. He will be remembered and cherished for his strength, humility, dignity, loyalty, wit charm and tolerance by all those he knew, loved, and believed in. He was a true southern gentleman.A Celebration of Chris' Life was held on July 17, 2013, in San Francisco, and a special note of thanks goes to his many close friends, his "California Family," and The Neptune Society of Northern California for all of their help and support. The family will receive friends at Oakey's Vinton Chapel from 5 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, August 13, 2013. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to your favorite charity. Arrangements by Oakey's Vinton Chapel, 540-982-2221. www.oakeys.com.