Gerald Wayne Atkins

Gerald Wayne Atkins, 77, of Shelbyville passed away Sunday, September 19, 2021, at his home. He was born June 15, 1944, in Harlan, Kentucky, the son of Odie Atkins and Geneva (Cheek) Hudson. On February 11, 1978, he married Diane Hill, and she survives. In addition to Diane, Gerald is survived by his sons, Jason Atkins, and John Atkins (Charity), both of Indianapolis; daughter, Amber Atkins of Shelbyville; step-son, Wayne West of Indianapolis; step-daughters, Vanessa West of Fairland, Lana West of Alert, and Donna Wilke of Mary Ester, Florida; sisters, Mary Brown of Indianapolis, and Freida Johnson of Pennsylvania; grandson, Garrett Watkins; and one niece. He was preceded in death by his parents. Gerald graduated in Harlan, Kentucky in 1962. He was a tool grinder at Navistar retiring after 31 years, in 1993. Gerald enjoyed cars, especially Shelby’s and Superbirds. He also enjoyed Harley Davidson Motorcycles. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, September 23, 2021, at Freeman Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, Carmony-Ewing Chapel, 819 S. Harrison St. in Shelbyville. Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Friday, September 24, 2021, at the funeral home. Interment will be at Fairland Cemetery in Fairland. Memorial contributions may be made to the Riley Children’s Foundation, 30 S. Meridian St., Suite 200, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204. Online condolences may be shared with Gerald’s family at www.freemanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.