Richard Atkinson

Richard Edward Atkinson, age 95, passed away on February 23, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, dedication, and deep love for his family and community.

Born in Pittsburgh, Kansas, Richard spent the majority of his life in Bisbee, Arizona a community he proudly called home and faithfully served for decades.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Flora Atkinson; his father, William Atkinson; and his brother, Ted Atkinson.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Wilma Jo Atkinson; his son, Richard Atkinson Jr.; his daughters, Vicki Cameron and Debbie Lee (James Lee). He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Denise Hamilton, Elise Edward, William Atkinson, and Bianca Heeren. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Evan Hamilton, Grayson Hamilton, Ben Hamilton, Evelyn Atkinson, Everett Heeren, and Colson Heeren. He joyfully anticipated the arrival of another great-grandson, the son of Elise and Luke Edward.

Richard's life was defined by his love of sports, education, and mentorship. He attended the University of Missouri, where his talent in baseball earned him induction into the university's Baseball Hall of Fame. He was also a proud 75-year member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. He later earned his master's degree from Kansas State University.

His career began as a professional baseball player, playing for several teams before being drafted into the United States Army, where he competed on an All-Army baseball team. His passion for the game naturally led him into coaching and education. For many years, he served as a baseball coach and educator at Cochise College, where he made a lasting impact on countless students and athletes. In recognition of his contributions, he was inducted into the Cochise College Hall of Fame.

After his baseball career, Richard discovered a new passion in golf. He became a PGA professional and served as the resident golf professional at Turquoise Valley Golf Course. During that time, he also demonstrated his many talents as an author and sports journalist, and he even designed the back nine holes of the golf course a testament to his creativity and vision.

These accomplishments represent only a portion of a life so richly lived. Above all, Richard was an amazing man a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend. He will be remembered for his character, his work ethic, his love of the game and the profound influence he had on generations of family, athletes, and students.

He will be missed immensely, but his legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family who carries his spirit forward.