Westley Shane Atkins

Westley Shane (Pooh-Bear) Atkins left this world on April 14th, 2024.

He graduated in 1990 from Central High School in Knoxville, TN. After graduating, he was employed at Quality Label & Tag where he worked as a Pressman until his illness.

Shane loved nothing more than riding dirt bikes with his friends, those were some of the best days of his life…he said that he always felt free and light-hearted when he started the engine and took off on the trails. 

When he couldn’t ride any longer, Shane immersed himself in History and Geography. He could carry on extensive conversations on the most obscure civilizations of the past, but his absolute favorites to discuss were Alexander the Great and Ancient Rome. 

Shane is survived by his mother, Betty Jo Doane-Atkins, father, James Martin Atkins, and siblings Brian Atkins and Amanda Atkins. 

Our hearts are hurting, but we know that he isn’t in pain any longer and is in Heaven being reunited with many beloved family members…especially his sweet nephew Ezra Zane Atkins whom he loved to the moon and back. 

Special thanks to Vicky Cochran (Knoxville), Sherri Williams (Nashville), and Ashley Bennett (Nashville), your unwavering support has been a source of strength for our family during this difficult time. 

A celebration of Shane’s life will be held on Saturday, April 27th from 5p-7p at Gentry Griffey Chapel in Knoxville, TN.

Gentry-Griffey Funeral Chapel and Crematory is honored to serve the Atkins family and invites you to sign the online registry at www.gentrygriffey.com

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