Richard Atkinson

Dr. Richard Atkinson, age 93, passed away on April 7, 2026, in Oxford, Mississippi.

Richard Atkinson was born on July 31, 1932, in New York City to Frederick and Winifred Atkinson.

Dr. Atkinson graduated from Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania, earning a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. He went on to attend McGill University School of Medicine in Montreal, Canada, where he earned his medical degree and specialized in anesthesiology.

Dr. Atkinson practiced medicine in Memphis, Tennessee, for more than 30 years, where he built a distinguished career marked by clinical excellence and deep compassion for his patients. He was particularly renowned for his expertise in providing anesthesia for infants, a highly specialized and delicate area of care that required exceptional precision, skill, and judgment. His work in this field touched countless families and reflected his steady hands, calm demeanor, and unwavering commitment to the most vulnerable patients.

Richard met the love of his life and best friend, Patricia Burrell of St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada. The two shared 66 years of marriage until her passing in August 2025. Together, Richard and Patricia raised two sons in a home filled with love, compassion, and laughter. Their enduring partnership and devotion to family were cornerstones of his life.

He is survived by his two sons: Mark Atkinson and his wife, Natalya, of Memphis, Tennessee; and Douglas W. Atkinson of Oxford, Mississippi. He also leaves behind five grandsons: Laughlin Atkinson of Senatobia, Mississippi; Harrison Atkinson of Oxford, Mississippi; Avery Atkinson of Oxford, Mississippi; Ian Atkinson of Memphis, Tennessee; and Matthew Atkinson of Memphis, Tennessee.

Dr. Atkinson leaves a legacy of love, compassion, and dedication to both his family and his profession. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, science, literature, and was an avid supporter of the University of Iowa. He was also known for his great sense of humor, his strong faith, and for the kindness and love he showed to everyone he met. He is now reunited with his beloved wife, Patricia, and his grandson, Walker Joyce Atkinson.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Shawanda McCollins, Arden Home Health and Hospice, Anna Hill, and the physical therapy staff at Midsouth Rehab for their exceptional care, kindness, and compassion shown to Richard.

The family will receive friends on April 17, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Waller Funeral Home, located at 419 Highway 6 West, Oxford, Mississippi. A private church service will be held thereafter. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.