Harvey Lee Atkins, heavy equipment operator

Harvey Lee Atkins departed this life Friday, Jan. 6, 2017, peacefully surrounded by his family and loved ones.

Harvey moved to Delaware with his mother and sister to live with his uncle at a young age. He attended George Washington Carver Elementary School in Frankford. He attended and graduated from W. C. Jason High School in Georgetown in 1960. Harvey served in the U.S. Army from 1964-66, as a paratrooper.

Prior to his passing, Harvey worked for Swan Construction as a heavy equipment operator; he was a subcontractor for Showell Farms in Bishopville, Md., as a weigh master, and he drove a dump truck for Beatrice West until his retirement.
Harvey enjoyed spending time and having a good time with his children, family and friends, telling funny stories and jokes. He was the manager for the 1979 Honolulu Road Stompers champions softball team, which he enjoyed. Harvey was an easygoing man and well loved by many; he would help anybody in need and he was known as the Mayor of Frankford. He loved listening to James Brown but one of his favorite songs was "Papa Don't Take No Mess."

Harvey was preceded in death by his father Edward Kane Atkins; his adoring mother Essie Lee Atkins; and a brother-in-law Charles Harmon.

He leaves to cherish many fond and loving memories his wife Irene Atkins of Frankford; sister Laverne Harmon of Frankford; his children Lavette Mumford (Howard) of Frankford, Vanita Ford of Millsboro, Monrieka Johnson (Luayne) of Laurel, Md., Lawanda Atkins of Millsboro and Maurice Turlington (Danshanara) of Frankford; 12 grandchildren, Keshauna Ford, Corey Myles 2nd, Howard Mumford Jr, Jaelin Johnson, Johniqu'a, Latays'a, Jonthan Jadien Atkins, Mar'kel, Maurion, Amare Turlington and Brennan Campbell. He is also survived by four great-granchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. He is also survived by his devoted and loving friend of many years Sherry Lynn Rogers of Millsboro, Thomas "Jodie" Oliver, Harvey's longtime childhood friend, and a surrogate son Mike Chandler.

The Celebration of Life service will be held Saturday, Jan. 14, 11 a.m., at the St. John's 2nd Baptist Church, 26602 Mt. Joy Road, Millsboro. Friends and family may view one hour prior to the service, from 10 to 11 a.m. Bishop Roland Mifflin will officiate. A private committal service will be held at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Millsboro at a later date and time.

Electronic condolences to: www.watsonfh.com.