Floyd Leon Atkinson

 

Buddy was born on August 26, 1944 to Floyd “Pete” Atkinson and Pearl Tindall Atkinson in Little Rock, AR. He was raised by his amazing single mother. After graduating from Little Rock Tech High School, Buddy went on to join the Little Rock Fire Department. He also proudly served our country in the Arkansas Army National Guard for 6 years. 

 

Buddy met the love of his life, Rita Cranford in 1965. Buddy offered to take Rita out after a guy she had been dating decided he wanted to go to the drag races instead. They were married on March 17, 1967.

 

Known as ‘Dumplin’ to his fellow firefighters, he served for 36 years retiring in 2003 as Captain with many wonderful memories and life long friendships. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, cooking, traveling and spending time with his beloved family. After a month long journey through Europe with Rita, he swore off long plane rides. He liked visiting sites in the United States much better.

 

He was hilarious with a quick, quiet wit and he was always there for family and friends. He was an amazing, loving father and BuBu to his grandchildren. His sister, Laverne, said he gave the best hugs.

 

Buddy loved our Lord and is now in heaven with his beloved mother, his nephew (Robert Carey Johnson), and many other loved ones who were such a big part of his life.

 

Buddy was predeceased by his mother, Pearl Tindall Atkinson and his father, Floyd "Pete" Atkinson. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Rita Cranford Atkinson; sister: Laverne Johnson; two daughters: Heather Atkinson and Hope Atkinson Johnson (Todd Johnson); a son: Heath Atkinson (Ta Jalansop Atkinson); cherished grandsons: Thane Johnson, Hayes Johnson, and Bryce Jalansop; and a granddaughter: Jade Atkinson. Other family members include his brother and sister-in-law, Denny and Patricia Cranford and their children.

 

He will be cremated and upon the death of his beloved wife, Rita, their ashes will be combined as they have eternal life in Heaven.

 

Services will be held at the First United Methodist Church in Benton, AR on Saturday, December 9, 2023. Visitation will be prior to the service from 10 am - 12 pm. The service will be held at 12 pm with a Little Rock Fire Department tribute. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Arkansas Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial, P.O. Box 56470, Little Rock, Arkansas 72215.

 

Arrangements entrusted to Smith Benton Funeral Home.