Shock and sadness after death of beloved rector Rev Bill Atkins
The death has occurred of Rev Bill Atkin, the rector of St Mark's Killylea, St John's Caledon and Holy Trinity, Brantry
IT was with profound sadness and shock the local community learned of the sudden passing of Rev Bill Atkins, the rector of St Mark's Killylea, St John's Caledon and Holy Trinity, Brantry.
Reverend Bill Atkins sadly passed away on Thursday, October 22.
Mid Ulster councillor, Frances Burton, told the Courier: “There is great sadness felt by those whom he had devoted so much of his time and pastoral duties and care to, as their rector and friend along with the wider community. There were many lives he had touched over the years. As the news broke of his death, it was very evident of the high esteem he was held in, the sorrow of loss, was widespread and heartfelt.
“He was a wonderful member of our local area and community who gave so much of himself to so many groups, involvement in schools and local organisations and clubs. But he always had time to speak a word of encouragement or be a blessing to others.”
The Select Vestry and parishioners of St John’s Parish Church, Caledon, shared a touching tribute on social media following the news of Rev Bill Atkins’ passing.
“For 13 years, Bill faithfully ministered to our church family, and his sudden passing has left us shocked and heartbroken. Throughout those years, we came to know Bill as a man of deep faith, great humility and exceptional kindness.
“Bill had an immense knowledge and understanding of the Bible, yet there was never any sense of pride in that knowledge. He shared God’s Word faithfully, always seeking to point others towards Christ. At the heart of his ministry was a genuine concern for people and, particularly, for their hearts and their relationship with God.
“Bill cared deeply for those to whom he ministered. His kindness, compassion and gentle manner touched many lives. Whether through his preaching, a quiet conversation, a word of encouragement, a prayer, or simply being there when someone needed him, Bill gave generously of himself.
“At this heart-breaking time, our thoughts and prayers are especially with his wife Jamila, his son Mark and the wider family circle. We pray that they will know God’s love, strength and comfort in the difficult days ahead.
Words were also shared by the First Caledon Boys’ Brigade who described Rev Atkins as a “much-loved” and “valued” company chaplain.
“His faith, kindness, guidance and support meant so much to our officers, boys and the wider community. His presence will be greatly missed at our weekly Bible class sessions, and his sudden passing leaves us deeply saddened.
“At this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are especially with his wife, son and wider family as they come to terms with this heart-breaking loss. We pray that they will feel surrounded by love, support and the comfort of God in the days ahead.
“As a Company, we give thanks for the time we shared with Rev Bill, for his faithful service and for the positive impact he made on so many lives.
“Thank you for your faithfulness, your friendship and all that you gave to our Company. You will never be forgotten.”
Tributes have also poured in from St Matthew’s Richhill, Killylea Primary School, St Mark’s Church, Killylea, and parishioners.