Killylea and Caledon minister laid to rest

THE Rector of Killylea, Caledon and Brantry Church of Ireland Parishes, Rev Forrest William (Bill) Atkins, was laid to rest on Thursday.

Rev Atkins passed away suddenly on Thursday, October 22, with many paying tribute to not only a man of deep faith but great kindness and humour.

The Select Vestry and parishioners of St John’s Parish Church, Caledon, said they were “deeply saddened by the sudden passing of our much-loved Rev Bill Atkins”.

The Vestry said, “For 13 years, Bill faithfully ministered to our church family, and his sudden passing has left us shocked and heartbroken.

“Throughout those years, we came to know Bill as a man of deep faith, great humility and exceptional kindness.

“Bill had an immense knowledge and understanding of the Bible, yet there was never any sense of pride in that knowledge. He shared God’s Word faithfully, always seeking to point others towards Christ. At the heart of his ministry was a genuine concern for people and, particularly, for their hearts and their relationship with God.

“Bill cared deeply for those to whom he ministered. His kindness, compassion and gentle manner touched many lives. Whether through his preaching, a quiet conversation, a word of encouragement, a prayer, or simply being there when someone needed him, Bill gave generously of himself.

“Over 13 years, Bill became an important part of the life of St John’s, sharing with us in times of joy and celebration as well as times of sadness and difficulty. His presence among us, his faithful teaching, his wisdom and, above all, his kindness will be very greatly missed.

“At this heartbreaking time, our thoughts and prayers are especially with his wife Jamila, his son Mark and the wider family circle. We pray that they will know God’s love, strength and comfort in the difficult days ahead.

“As a Select Vestry and church family, we give thanks to God for the privilege of Bill’s 13 years of ministry at St John’s. His life and ministry have left an enduring mark on our parish and on the many people whose lives he touched. His sudden loss is deeply felt, and he will be remembered with great affection and gratitude for many years to come.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Rev Atkins served as the Chairman of the Board of Governors at Killylea Primary School.

A school spokesperson said, “It is with profound sadness that Killylea Primary School mourns the passing of Reverend Bill Atkins, Chair of our Board of Governors.

“Reverend Bill devoted many years of service, support and encouragement to our whole school community. He was a trusted friend, supporter, advocate and champion of our school. His contribution will be remembered with great affection, and he leaves a lasting impact on our pupils, staff, parents, fellow governors and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Mrs Atkins, our deeply valued colleague, their son Mark, a past pupil, and the wider family circle at this very difficult time.”

And one of his parishioners, Sue Bloomer, said, “So sad to hear of the passing of our Reverend Bill Atkins. He was truly one of a kind. He wasn't just our minister, he was a friend who meant an awful lot to our family. He had time for everybody and always loved a good wee laugh.

“I'll always remember him asking me at a wedding, ‘Sue, what is a selfie?’ I have so many funny memories of Bill that I'll treasure forever.

“You will be sadly missed, Bill, but never forgotten. Thank you for the laughter, kindness and friendship over the years.

“Rest easy, Reverend Bill. Heaven has gained a special soul.”

Also paying tribute was St Matthew’s Parish, Richhill, “ We are sorry to hear of the death... of the Rev’d Bill Atkins, Rector of Killylea, Caledon & Brantry.

“Please keep his wife Jamila, son Mark, family, friends and parishioners in your prayers.Bill was a faithful preacher of the gospel. May that gospel of salvation through faith alone in Jesus Christ crucified and resurrected bring comfort and hope to all who mourn his death.”

Caledon & Minterburn Presbyterian Churches also passed on their “deep sadness over the death of Rev. Bill Atkins. Our prayers are with Jamila and Mark, all his family and friends and the church families of St John's, Killylea and the Brantry”.

Rev Atkins passed away peacefully at hospital on Thursday, 22nd October. Late of the Rectory, Killylea he was the Rector of St Mark’s Killylea, St John’s Caledon and Holy Trinity Brantry.

He was the beloved husband of Jamila, dearly loved father of Mark, cherished brother of Shaun, Libby and Mary.

His funeral service took place in The Cathedral Church of St Patrick, Armagh on Thursday 29th October at 12 noon followed by a private cremation.H

Family flowers only please donations in lieu if desired for Northern Ireland Chest, Heart and Stroke c/o K G Cheevers and Son, Funeral Directors, 58F Hamiltonsbawn Road, Armagh, BT60 1HW or online at kgcheevers.co.uk.

Lovingly remembered by his sorrowing wife, family and the entire family circle.