Thurman Chrystor Atkinson Jr.

ATKINSON, THURMAN CHRYSTOR (T.C.), JR., 78, of Midlothian, Virginia died peacefully, surrounded and supported by his family, on November 22 after a valiant battle with cancer. He was born on March 19, 1939 to Thurman Chrystor Atkinson and Bettie Mae Watkins Atkinson of Blackstone, Virginia. TC is survived by his best friend and loving wife of 54 years, Carolyn Bridgeman Atkinson, his daughter, Tammy Lynn Atkinson, son, Chrystor Lee Atkinson, daughter-in-law, Mary Gordon Atkinson, three grandchildren: Kara Nicole Atkinson, Matthew Chrystor Atkinson, and Madison Lynn Atkinson, and three grand dogs: Kaia, Karma, and Kobi, sisters: Emily Wrenn Atkinson Swelnis of Midlothian, Virginia and Bettie Sterling Atkinson Telepo of Northville, Michigan and numerous nieces and nephews. TC was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters: Anna Watkins Atkinson Spruill and Eleanor Naomi Atkinson Skinner, both of Blackstone TC enlisted in the Virginia Army National Guard when he was 17 years old and was known as one of the “Original 29” at MATES – Fort Pickett, Virginia. During his 42 years of service, TC held numerous positions and ranks, ending his tour as the United States Property and Fiscal Officer (USPFO) for the Virginia National Guard, when upon retirement, obtained the rank of Brigadier General. On August 29, 2015, along with his son, Chris and grandson, Matthew, he was raised as a Master Mason along with his other Brothers of Masonic Lodge 14, in Richmond, Virginia. Then, on November 14, 2015, he became a Shriner with the ACCA Temple and a member of the Manchester Shrine Club. In the late 70’s and early 80’s, TC found great joy in coaching Tammy’s Little League softball team. He coached a core group of young players for several years, developing them individually and as a team. This team ultimately won the Virginia State USSSA tournament and advanced to the USSSA World Series. Many of his players still refer to him as “The Best Coach Ever”. TC had the special gift of conversation, whether it be serious or playful. That gift, coupled with his engaging, friendly, and outgoing personality, contributed to his knowing no strangers and establishing deep, meaningful friendships. He exuded calmness in times of stressful uncertainty. He always treated others with kindness, and sought the good in everyone and everything. All who knew TC, loved him dearly. After retirement, he enjoyed playing golf, travelling, spending time with his family and friends and savoring a nice glass of scotch by the river. Until his health turned, he was an active member in the Men’s Senior Golf League at Stonehenge Country Club where you could find him most days. The family is especially appreciative of Dr. Yuvraj Choudhary of the Virginia Cancer Institute and Dr. Leanne Yanni of Bon Secours Palliative and Hospice Care for their compassionate approach to patient care and their unwavering commitment to quality of life. Gratitude is also extended to the entire staff at Sunridge Medical Center in Scottsdale, Arizona. In addition, we are deeply moved by the love and support extended to us over the last year by friends and family, near and far. TC will be missed dearly by all, but his spirit will carry on with us forever. Plans for a service at Arlington National Cemetery are underway. It is the family’s wish to take this immediate time to mourn and experience the Christmas Holiday but hope you will join them to celebrate TC’s life at Stonehenge Country Club on January 20th at 6:30. In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made in TC’s name to the Shriners Children’s Hospitals, care of Manchester Shrine Club, 1712 Bellevue Avenue, Richmond, Virginia 23227. Online condolences can be made at www.woodyfuneralhome.com