William "Bill" L. Atkins, 78, of Andalusia, passed from this life on Wednesday, December 16, 2015 at his home after a long battle with cancer. Cremation rites were accorded. A memorial service will be 3 p.m. Saturday at Church of Peace United Church of Christ, Rock Island. The family will reserve time for sharing stories and memories following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in care of Church of Peace United Church of Christ, Rock Island. Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Milan, is assisting the family.

Bill was born in Jasper, Alabama on November 1, 1937, a son of Henry and Lillie Pair Atkins. He married Carol Miller on October 20, 1956 at Church of Peace United Church of Christ, Rock Island.

Bill was a long time truck driver finishing his career with Johannes Bus Service.

He was a member of Church of Peace United Church of Christ, Rock Island, where he rang the bell every Sunday. He loved golfing, car racing and motorcycles.

Survivors include his wife, Carol Atkins, Andalusia; children, Vicky (James) Earel, Moline and Rick (Kelly) Atkins, Andalusia; grandchildren, James (Anne) Earel Jr., LeClaire, Joshua (Shawna) Earel, Cedar Rapids, Travis (Felicia) Atkins, East Moline and Sara (Mike) DeKeyrel, Andalusia; great-grandchildren, Isaac Earel, Jonah William Earel, Elianna Atkins and Carsen, Cain and Callen DeKeyrel; brother, Ray Atkins, Spartanburg, S.C.; and his two furry friends, Wrigley and Teddy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and two sisters.

The family would like to thank Dr. Garneau and his staff as well as UnityPoint Hospice and staff for all of the wonderful care given to Bill.