Tracy W. Atkinson

Tracy W. Atkinson, 51, of Valdosta, passed away suddenly Monday, December 18, 2017.

Born in Donalsonville, Georgia, to Patricia Atkinson and the late Larry Atkinson, Tracy attended Seminole County High School, class of 1984, and graduated from the University of Georgia College of Pharmacy in 1990. He was esteemed for his work ethic—known for never taking a sick day—and earned a loyal following of customers in his 27-year career as a pharmacist that included stints at Walmart, Publix, and, most recently, Sam's Club.

Tracy was an avid University of Georgia football fan, an enthusiasm instilled in him as a child while listening to games on the radio with his dad. He passed his passion for all-things Bulldog to his own son and daughter, and as a longtime season-ticket holder, he enjoyed attending games with his family. No doubt he increased the number of Bulldog faithful by taking countless kids to their first games between the hallowed hedges in Athens. Self-sacrificing and generous, Tracy was a member of CrossPointe Church, where he and his wife recently began hosting a LifeGroup, something he greatly enjoyed. He loved his family, reading a good book, having his home filled with his children's friends, and watching Marvel movies with his daughter.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife of 22 years, Abigail Branch Atkinson; son and daughter, Alex and Katie Atkinson; siblings Tony (Wendy) Atkinson, Patty Atkinson and daughter Drew; in-laws Beth (Al) Dodds, Ron Branch, Scott Dodds, Lisa (Michael) Herndon, Perry (Jeni) Branch, Laura Beaty; and many nieces.

The funeral will be held Thursday, December 21, 2017, at 11 a.m. at CrossPointe Church, with the burial to follow at McLane Riverview Memorial Gardens. Rev. David Rogers will officiate. The family will also be receiving friends at CrossPointe Church on Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. As a tribute to Tracy’s unwavering devotion to the Dawgs, the family would love to see his friends and family wearing red and black to the services. Memorial donations may be made to The Mailbox Club, 404 Eager Road, Valdosta, GA 31602, or Options Now, 214 W. Park Ave. Valdosta, GA 31602. Condolences may be conveyed to the family on the obituary page of www.mclanecares.com Carson McLane Funeral Home