Tom Ed Atkinson was born August 9, 1949, in Bryan, TX, Tom Ed Atkinson really had no choice but to become a lifelong Aggie fan. Raised in Florence, TX, he attended Texas A&M University, however, his path took a different turn as he returned to his roots, spending many years framing houses before starting his own business building agricultural fencing.

A man of unwavering dedication and an unmatched work ethic, Tom Ed always put his family first. His love for farming and ranching was evident in the years he spent raising sheep, cattle, and goats. Above all, he was committed to serving his community. Tom Ed served on the Florence Independent School District (FISD) School Board for 15 years and was a lifelong member of the Florence United Methodist Church. Tom Ed's legacy will forever live on in the hearts of his loved ones. He is cherished by his devoted wife, Billie Jean Atkinson; his children, Erin Reeder (Tooter), son in law TJ, and JT Atkinson (Sonny) and daughter in law DeLisa; his grandchildren, Branson Reeder (Branson Case), Mackenzie Atkinson (Mackadoo), Madison Atkinson (Maddie Ann), and Owen Reeder (OW); and countless friends whose lives he touched.

He worked tirelessly, loved deeply, and lived life to the fullest. We take comfort knowing he is now looking down, celebrating his life surrounded by those who cherished him, as he never met a stranger.

Tom Ed is survived by his Sister Julie Collins, brother-in-law Jeff Collins, Sister-in-laws Pam Atkinson and Debbie Yost and daughter Audra along with numerous nieces and nephews and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents Tom and Wille Fae Atkinson, brothers Ben and Jim Atkinson and son Brian.

A visitation will be held at Florence United Methodist Church on Sunday, January 12, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Services will be Monday, January 13, at 2:00 PM, also at Florence United Methodist Church, with a graveside to follow. The service will be livestreamed via the church Facebook page.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the Florence United Methodist Church to be forwarded to support the research of Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP).