Roland Atkinson

Mr. Roland Atkinson, 91, of Paris died Sunday, February 16, 2025, at his home.

Services will be held at noon on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Union Grove Missionary Baptist Church. Interment will follow in Greenwood Cemetery.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday until time of service at the church.

He was born on August 9, 1933, in Paris, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, educator, musician, and civil rights activist.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce Ann Atkinson; children: Vanessa (Paul) Payne, Brenda Murphy, Linda (David) Sheldon, Victor (Sharon) Atkinson, Eric (Mary) Atkinson, George Atkinson, Torrence (Stephanie) Atkinson, Kevin (Angela) Pearson, Chris Pearson, and Rhoeshia (Gene) Jones; grandchildren: Crashaunya Hartsfield, Jonathan Taylor, Andre Atkinson, Savion Pearson, Kaila Pearson, Sydney Williams, Kalilah Atkinson, Darrius Pearson, Travius Pearson, Gykeriah Jones, Xavier Jones, and Isaiah Jones; great-grandchildren: Lei Lani Taylor, Kanye Taylor, Kyra Taylor, Akeevia Atkinson, Londyn McFerron, Mason Taylor, and Kamiyah Mckibbens; and devoted friend, Earl Kendall. He also leaves behind numerous godchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Joe and Ruhema Atkinson; siblings: Joe Atkinson, Carl Atkinson, Fred Atkinson, Betty Thomas, Macy Atkinson, and Amelia Atkinson; and granddaughter, Victoria Atkinson.

Roland dedicated over 41 years to education, becoming the first Black teacher in the newly integrated schools of Paris, Tennessee. He earned his master's degree from Murray State University and was a passionate advocate for civil rights, actively participating in the movement and serving as a member of the NAACP.

A talented musician, Roland served as the minister of music at Union Grove Missionary Baptist Church. His community involvement extended to memberships in the Brother to Brother Club, Central High Alumni Association, Confidence Lodge 17 Free and Accepted Masons, Northwest Tennessee Economic Development Center, Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce, and active participation in the Layman's Club in the Obion River District. His dedication was recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 1991 and the Peggy Belcher Scholarship Scholastic Achievement Award.

In 1995, Roland was honored by the mayor of Paris for his outstanding contributions to the community.

Known for his faith, polished demeanor, humor, storytelling, and humanitarian spirit, Roland cherished God, family, music, fun, and dancing. His legacy of love, dedication, and service will continue to inspire all who knew him.

McPhearson-Rawls Funeral Home - Paris 731-642-1515