Ernest John Atkinson, Sr.

Ernest J. Atkinson, Sr. was born on September 24, 1937, and on April 13, 2023 passed away at age 85. Devoted to the Church at an early age, Ernest joined St. John Lutheran and was confirmed on Palm Sunday at only 14 years old. Later in life, he married Barbara on August 29, 1959 by the Reverend Dr. Keptner at St. John Lutheran. He served in various leadership roles at St John Lutheran, making a huge impact on his parish. He was an active member for 71 years attending Easter Sunday worship days before his call to eternal life.

Ernest was the beloved husband of Barbara Atkinson (nee Henry); devoted father of Ernest J. Atkinson, Jr. and wife Shirl, Raymond P. Atkinson and wife Holly and Carl L. Atkinson; cherished grandfather of Ashley and husband David Hershman, Brittany, Ryan, Sophia and Austin, dear great grandfather of Jake, Kaylee, Raelynn and Kelsey; loved brother of Shirley LaCoste and husband Joseph; also survived by other relatives and friends.

The family requests relatives and friends to visit the family owned Gonce Funeral Service, 4001 Ritchie Highway, on Wednesday (April 19, 2023) from 3-5 PM & 7-9 PM. Further visitation will be held on Thursday in St. John Lutheran Church Memorial Parlor from 10-11 AM at which time services will be held. Interment will follow in Zion United Church of Christ Cemetery, 7146 Golden Ring Road, Baltimore, MD 21221.

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