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Jesse Fred Atkinson

Funeral services for Jesse Fred Atkinson, 68, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 9:00 a.m., Saturday, May 4, 2019 at Curry Street Church of Christ, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mr. Atkinson passed away at 11:42 a.m., Tuesday, April 30, 2019 at Ozarks Medical Center, surrounded by his friends and family, including most importantly, his best friend, Patsy Atkinson.

He was born May 13, 1950, at Moody, Missouri, to James Ross Atkinson and Doll Onetta Brown Atkinson.  Jess graduated from West Plains High School with the Class of 1968.  He lived life to the fullest and passed away while doing what he enjoyed most, spending time in the outdoors with his best friend, Patsy.  After many years of adventures on his own, Jesse married his best friend and companion, Patsy Strong on September 24, 1976.  After marriage, Jesse and Patsy continued their adventures together and lived life to the fullest, never missing an opportunity to take on another great adventure.  Jesse lived an extraordinary life and made the best of the time he was given on this earth, not only enjoying life himself, but making life more adventurous for those around him.  Although Jesse and Patsy did not have children of their own, they were actively involved in raising their nieces and nephews.  The love Jess had for the children of his friends was surpassed by no other as he guided them as though they were his own, to help them become great young men and women.  He left this world too soon and will be missed by many.  Jess had many friends for whom he would do anything and in return, he only asked that they help themselves.  Jess was faithful, loyal and never one to “shirk” a task.  The world was a better place with him in it.  He was a lifelong active member of Curry Street Church of Christ and loved his Lord deeply.

He is survived by his best friend and wife, Patsy Atkinson; and many nieces, nephews and close family.

His parents and one sister, Jane Reavis, preceded him in death.

Mr. Atkinson will lie in state from 5:00 until 9:00 p.m., Friday, at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.  Burial will be in the Bakersfield Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to Paragould Children’s Home or Cystic Fibrosis Association of West Plains and may be left at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Online condolences may be expressed at www.robertsondrago.com.