Committal
Ronald Atkins, 90, of Morganton, NC, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2025, surrounded by family, and is now in the presence of Jesus.
Ron was born on July 18, 1935, in Buffalo, NY to James Jr. and Evelyn Atkins, and began a life of love and sacrifice as a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and faithful friend.
Ron dedicated 44 years of his professional life to SGL Carbon Corporation, where he was known for his outgoing spirit and his talent for throwing a memorable work party.
In his early twenties, Ron was a pitcher in semi-pro baseball and went on to become a golf enthusiast, winning the Quaker Cup in 2011. He cherished his involvement with his church and was filled with joy when serving others in his community, primarily giving equipment, shoes and gear to athletes in need. Ron especially enjoyed mornings spent with his breakfast club crew.
Ron is survived by his wife, Cindy Atkins; his children, Christopher (Sue) Atkins, Michele (Joe) Atkins, Melissa (Bryce) Mullinnix, and Melanie (Jed) Busbee; his stepchildren, Christy (Sean) Whisenant and Casey Saulman; and his grandchildren, Andrew, Luke, Eric, and Lily Atkins, Madeline and Maddox Mullinnix, Caleb, Natalie, Cameron, and Micah Busbee, and Rylan and Lilly Saulman.
The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at Walker Road Baptist Church. The memorial service will follow at noon in the church with Rev. Mark Ball officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Burke County Senior Center in Morganton.
Ron will be remembered for his selflessness, steady presence, and generosity. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the love and devotion he freely gave.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Ron, it was a pleasure to know you and work for you at SGL Carbon, LLC prayers out to your loving family. Wanda Mckesson Edmunds
Ron will be forever loved and missed by all that knew him at the Burke Senior Center. He was always so friendly and kind to all, and a personal source of inspiration to me in the chair exercise class. Sending love and praying for his family and many friends during this time….🙏❤️
Ron was a sweet man he was great friend, always cheering the kids on at their games. Ron will be very missed. Love the Jones Family.
one of the nicest man i ever met, peace.
I am so sorry to hear about Ron. I met him in Chair Exercise at the Senior Center. He was always such a friendly guy. He is at peace now! Again he will be missed!
So very sorry for your loss. Much love and prayers.
My deepest sympathy during this difficult time. Sending you love and strength. You're in my thoughts and prayers.
May you rest in peace, Ron. You will be missed.
We always remember Uncle Ron as generous and caring. We have fond memories of getting together when he lived in Buffalo. Chris and Michelle, our condolences go out to both of you, May you find peace in this time.