Mr. Albert "Buddy" Atkinson, Jr.

Albert "Buddy" Atkinson, Jr.  , 86 of Fayetteville, passed away Monday March 16, 2015. He was preceded in death by his parents James & Fairby Atkinson; brothers Duke, Robert, Paul and Andy; sister Betty Lou and daughter Wanda Rasch. He is survived by his wife Cora Mae Atkinson,  sister Etta Jackson, daughters Robin French and husband Bobby, Julie Strickland and husband Lindsay. He had six grandchildren, Tara French Tatum, Beverly French Lovell, Lorie Martinez , Holly Warner, MacLean and Haylie Strickland. He also had 5 great grandchildren.

Born April 15, 1928 he married Cora Talbert on December 25, 1949. A faithful husband and father he was also deeply devoted to his church. He first served as a deacon in 1949 at Second Baptist Church in Fayetteville and continued to serve in a number of leadership roles. He later attended Massey Hill Baptist and Village Baptist and was an active member in every respect. He was also very involved in the music programs including serving as choir director at Massey Hill.

Buddy worked at Fayetteville Publishing Company for 47 years where he started as a delivery boy. He later worked in a variety of other positions. Following his retirement he enjoyed conducting guided tours for school groups. He also enjoyed working in his yard and garden and hosting gatherings for family and friends. He was a U.S. Navy Veteran.

He was a great husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was loved very much and will be missed greatly.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, March 19, 2015 at Village Baptist Church from 11:30 a.m. until 12:45 p.m. prior to services.  Funeral services will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Village Baptist Church, with Dr. Bruce Martin and John Cook officiating. Burial will follow in Lafayette Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Village Baptist Church's building fund or mission fund.

Online condolences may be sent to www.sullivanshighland.com.

Services are entrusted to Sullivan's Highland Funeral Service and Crematory, of Fayetteville, NC.