James “Jim” Richard Atkinson, 72, of Washington, WV passed away Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at his residence. He was born May 26, 1953, a son to the late James W. and Mildred “Midge” L. Atkinson (Crone).
Jim retired from Dupont after 38 years, where he was a Crane operator and part of the Hazmat Chemical Response Team. Jim was also the Asst. Chief for Blennerhassett Volunteer Fire Dept until 1991.
Jim loved spending time at his garage, tinkering with his Hit ‘N’ Miss engines and old antique tractors. He loved taking them to local shows like Volcano Days. He was an active member of the Wood County Flywheelers Club for 40+ years.
Jim would drop what he was doing to help you. Whether it was fabricating, welding, milling, or electrical. Everyone who knew Jim knew he could-and would-fix anything, and he always did. He enjoyed spending time with his Grandson Dalton, and teaching him how to work on tractors and Hit ‘N’ Miss engines while sharing the love of his hobby and the history behind it.
Surviving Jim are his children Felicia Lewis (Scott); James Atkinson; Crystal Atkinson; grandchildren Dalton Becker, Laramie Lewis, and Taylor Atkinson; and sister Patricia Layman (Brooks).
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his granddaughter Harlee Becker and sister Juanita Ferguson.
Services for Jim will be held at Leavitt Funeral Home in Parkersburg WV on Monday, February 2nd, at 1pm. Visitation will be Sunday, February 1st, from 5-7pm and again one hour prior to the service on Monday.
Online condolences may be left at www.leavittfuneralhome.com
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