C. L. “Paw Paw” Atkinson, 1935–2020

C. L. “Paw Paw” Atkinson died peacefully at home with family on September 13, 2020, in Dickens, Texas, at the age of 85.

C. L. was born on April 28, 1935, north of Glenn, Texas, to Claude and Minnie Atkinson. He graduated from Dickens High School in 1953. He married the love of his life, Janice Inell Lewis, in 1954. He then attended Wayland Baptist University, where received a B.A. in ministry in 1968. After moving to numerous locations, CL began his ministry in Dickens Baptist Church. The couple welcomed five children into their home, where they taught them about Jesus Christ. He also taught them about carpentry, plumbing and the skills of life. His children remember him as a generous, kind and loving father who encouraged them to pursue their goals.

C. L. was accomplished at general carpentry and often built projects for his daughters-in-law and grandchildren for Christmas and graduation presents. He was a dedicated individual who loved the teachings of Christ and who was passionate about spreading His word. C. L. ended his career as pastor of Bethel Baptist Church in Spur, Texas.

C. L. is survived by his wife, Inell, and five sons, Jeff of Denton, Texas; Terry and wife, Debbie, of Spur, Texas; Joe and wife, Betty Renée, of Lubbock, Texas; Barry and wife, Lillian, of Dickens, Texas; and Brent and wife, Jerri, of Dickens, Texas. He is survived by 15 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two sisters, Elmyra Greenwood of Jayton, Texas, and Bobbie Hix of Dickens, Texas, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by seven siblings and two grandchildren.

A funeral was scheduled for 10 a.m. Tuesday, September 15, 2020, at Dickens Baptist Church, with interment at Dickens Cemetery. Ben Kautz officiated the ceremony, with Chris Atkinson reading the eulogy. The family would like to thank Hospice of Lubbock for their passionate care and dedication to C. L.