Allen "A.Z." Atkinson

Allen "A.Z." Atkinson, age 70, passed away Sunday, June 14, 2020. Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m. Thursday, June 18th at Christian Pathway Church with burial following at Wells Cemetery. Anyone who wishes to pay their respects to A.Z. and sign the guestbook may do so Wednesday between 3-7 p.m. at Belk Funeral Home in Lamar.

Born February 18, 1950, A.Z. was the son of the late William "W.A." Atkinson and Edith Mae Windham Atkinson. He retired from Sumter Utilities after 38 years, and also ran Lynches River Deer Processing. A.Z. liked being around people and never met a stranger. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, cooking, and loved attending his grandchildren's sport games. He attended Christian Pathway Church in Lamar.

Surviving are his wife of over 50 years, Lilla Faye Lee Atkinson; children, Reese (Melinda) Atkinson of Bishopville, William Atkinson of Lynchburg, Beth (James) Hopkins of Bishopville, and Steven Atkinson of Lamar; grandchildren, Brittany, Reese Macallen, Devin, Samantha, Pepper, Katilyn, McKinley, and Ryder; great-grandchildren, Tucker, Trevor, Amelia, and one on the way, Andi. Also surviving are his siblings, Calvin Atkinson, Dewey Atkinson, and Susie Joye, all of Lee County.

He was preceded in death by a grandson, Shane Saverance.

Memorials may be made to a charity of one's choice.