Atharay Atkins Sr., age 89, passed away March 23, 2011 in Arcadia, FL. Atharay was born December 21, 1921 in Baker, FL, moving to Arcadia more than 70 year ago, from Baker, FL. He was a heavy equipment operator. He retired from General Development Corp. as a heavy equipment operator. He also worked for DeSoto County Department of Transportation for a period of time. Atharay was a veteran of the U. S. Army. He enjoyed fishing and hunting and spending time with his family. He was a member of Oak Hill Baptist Church, Arcadia, FL. Survivors are his beloved wife, Virginia Atkins, Arcadia, four sons; Jerry R. (Carmen) Atkins, Arcadia, FL, Charlie (Marie) Atkins, Lake Wales, FL, Atharay Ray Atkins Jr., and Allen Atkins, both of Arcadia, FL. three daughters; JoAnn (George) Burnham, Arcadia, FL, Betty (Keith) Baker, Lehigh Acres, FL and Carolyn Writsel, Columbus, OH, sixteen grandchildren, thirty six great grandchildren, and twenty seven great great grand children. Atharay also leaves two brothers; Bernie and Autis Monk Atkins and two sister; Ila Mae Coogle and Charlotte (Marlin) Bass all of Milton, FL. Visitation will be from 10:00AM until 11:00AM Monday, March 28, at Oak Hill Baptist Church, Arcadia,FL. Funeral services will be at 11:00AM at Oak Hill Baptist Church, Arcadia, FL with Reverend Terry Hudson officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at pongerkaysgrady.com Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Arcadia, FL is in charge of arrangements.