Gary Kenneth “Mudhog” Atkins, age 89 of Bridgeport, passed away on Saturday, July 4, 2026. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026 from the Rudder Funeral Home Chapel. Rev. Greg Hamman officiated. Interment followed in the Pinehaven Memorial Gardens.
Mr. Atkins is survived by his daughter, Debbie (Kelsey) Hollis; his grandson, Dewayne Hollis; his granddaughters, Crystal (Tracy) Jones, Savannah Norman; his grandson, Brayden Jones; and the light of his life, Taylor Collins; sisters, Barbara (Dewayne) Dunn, Wilma Jean Atkins; brothers, Clayton Atkins, Richard Atkins, Moosie Atkins and Wilburn Atkins; sisters in law, Kathy Atkins and Faye Atkins; son in law, James Moon, Jr.; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and loved ones.
Mr. Atkins was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Carolyn Atkins; his sister, Betty Faye; his brothers, Roy Clifford Atkins Jr. and Ernie Allen; his mother, Amanda Irene Atkins; his father, Roy Clifford Atkins; his maternal grandparents, Ed and Ider Grant; his paternal grandfather, Taylor Atkins; his nephews, David Atkins and Ched Atkins; his daughter-in-law, Ann Moon; and his sisters-in-law, Mae Atkins and Dorothy “Dot” Atkins.
Gary Kenneth Atkins, known to his friends and coworkers as “Mudhog,” leaves behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, and memories that will be shared for generations to come.
Gary wasn’t a man who lived quietly.
He lived with grit in his hands, determination in his heart, and a smile that could brighten even the hardest day.
He believed in hard work, straight talk, and helping people whenever he could. If someone needed a hand, Gary was often the first to offer one.
For many years, Gary dedicated himself to his work at Widows Creek.
The friendships he built there and the respect he earned reflected the kind of man he was—dependable, hardworking, and genuine.
He also enjoyed plumbing and electrical work and took pride in helping others and doing things the right way.
Family was the center of Gary’s world. He was a protector, a storyteller, a teacher, and a friend.
His grandchildren knew they could count on him, and those closest to him knew that beneath his tough exterior was a heart full of love and loyalty.
Gary’s life was measured not by material things but by the people he loved, the lives he touched, and the memories he created.
His laughter filled a room, his stories captivated those around him, and his presence made people feel at home.
The world knew him as “Mudhog,” but to those who loved him, he was so much more, a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, trusted friend, and a man whose impact will never be forgotten.
His boots may now rest, but the path he carved through the hearts of those who loved him will remain forever.
