Gale Wilson Atkinson

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Gale Wilson Atkinson of Trussville, Alabama, who left us on June 23, 2025, at the age of 80. Gale was a beacon of light and love, leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Born on November 28, 1944, in Birmingham, Alabama, Gale was the only child of James and Louise Wilson. She was raised in Ensley, where her roots in the Methodist Church were planted early and remained a guiding light throughout her life. It was also in Ensley that she forged a lifelong bond with her oldest and dearest friend, Dona Nichols Sims, a friendship that continued through their college years as roommates at Jacksonville State University, where Gale earned her Bachelor of Science degree.

Gale dedicated many years to education, sharing her knowledge and passion with others. She served on the staff at Hall School of Journalism at Troy University from 1983 to 1993, then continued her career with the Jefferson County Board of Education from 1994 until her well-deserved retirement in 2005.

On November 12, 1994, Gale married the love of her life, Bill Atkinson, in a beautiful ceremony in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Their union was filled with joy and companionship.

Gale had a vibrant spirit and a variety of passions. She was a huge Auburn football fan, cheering on her Tigers with unwavering enthusiasm. Her green thumb brought beauty to the world through her great love of tending flowers. Gale also found joy in her extensive collections, which included magazines and books, Hummel figurines, Santa figurines, and snowmen.

Gale was preceded in death by her daughter, Janice Crocker Lampkin; her parents, James Wilson and Louise Wilson Culpepper; and her stepfather, Donald Culpepper. She is survived by her devoted husband, Bill Atkinson; her daughter, Leigh Ellen Bee; her grandchildren, Matthew Bee, Joshua Bee, Isabella Lampkin, Wilson Herring, Joseph Herring, and Laura Krauss; and her great-grandchildren, James Krauss and Knox Herring. She also leaves behind her treasured friends Carol White, Rhonda Whiteley, Dolly Walker, Linda Hall, and Dona Sims, as well as her beloved cats, Opie and MamaCat.

To her grandchildren, she was lovingly known as “Nannie”—a title she wore with pride and warmth. Her grandchildren dearly loved her and they received much love in return. Gale’s life was a beautiful tapestry of love, faith, and kindness. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A visitation will take place at Ridout’s Elmwood Chapel on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 1:00 – 2:00 pm with a funeral service beginning at 2:00 pm. Burial will immediately follow at Elmwood Cemetery.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff of St. Vincent's East, North Tower 5th floor, for their compassionate care during Gale's final days.