Dana Franklin Atkins, age 84, of Rogersville, closed his eyes and woke up in the presence of his Lord and Savior at his home on Thursday, September 12, 2024. Though he didn't have any biological children of his own, he had grandkids and great grandkids he loved as if he did. He was saved as a young adult and baptized at Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church. He loved to serve the Lord and was always happy to help others. He attended Spruce Pine Baptist Church, until his health began to decline,  he also served as a deacon. He retired several years ago from AGC Glass in Church Hill as many of his coworkers he was known as "Little Man".

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Lloyd and Minnie Atkins; brother and sister-in-law, J.L. and Betty Atkins; father and mother-in-law, Arthur and Maymie Brooks; brother and sister-in-law, William and Ruth Brooks; brother and sister-in-law, Doyle and Juanita Brooks; niece, Sheila Atkins; brother-in-law, Donnie Hixon; and nephews, Brent Atkins, Scott Henry Brooks, and Terry Hixon.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Doris Atkins of 54 years; brother and sister-in-law, Albert and Brenda Atkins; brother and sister-in-law, Mack and Janet Brooks; sister, Eva Hixon; many other nieces and nephews; niece whom he raised and loved as his own, EddaSue and Steve Elkins; granddaughter, Jessica and Josh LaRoy; grandson, Josh and Dakota Elkins; great grandkids, Austin, Riley, Keely, Luke Elkins and Ezra LaRoy, as he was known as their DaDa.

The family of Dana wishes to extend their sincere thanks to his caregivers, his doctor Danny Wester and to Amedysis Hospice.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm Sunday, September 15, 2024 at Christian Sells Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 pm with Rev. Brandon Brewer and Rev. Odell Davidson officiating. Graveside service will follow in Highland Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Josh Elkins, Josh LaRoy, Austin Elkins, Riley Elkins, Travis Hixon, and Joe Hixon. Online condolences may be sent at www.christiansells.com.

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing." 2 Timothy 4:7-8