William A. Atkinson

William Arthur Atkinson, affectionately known as “Billy,”was born in Joliet, Illinois, to the late Lucille Austin and Roosevelt Atkinson. A man of quiet creativity and deep warmth, Billy carried his love for art throughout his life, leaving behind a legacy of sketches and paintings that captured his keen eye and thoughtful spirit.

Educated in Lockport schools, he graduated from Lockport Township High School and spent years as a dedicated Tool and Die Maker in the steel industry. Yet beyond his trade, Billy was a man of simple pleasures—his early morning walks through the neighborhood, cane in hand as the sun rose; his enthusiasm for lottery games, always eager to share his winnings; and his gift for storytelling, often reminiscing about the “good ol’ days” with a hearty laugh.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents; his grandparents, Theretha and Henry Austin; his sister, Jean Baldwin; and his uncles, Jesse Dantzler, Chester Dantzler, and William Austin.

Billy’s memory lives on through his devoted wife, Annamariaa; his three children, Marcel, Armoane, and Christal (Eric); his brothers, Robert, Curtis, and Ken Atkinson; his sisters, Theresa Austin and Francis Atkinson; his cherished aunt, Ida Dantzler; and a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends, including Dan Hayes, Tim Bates, and Faye Harlan, as well as his wife’s unwavering support system, her “village.”

Those who knew Billy will forever remember his easy smile, booming laughter, and the way he could turn an ordinary chat into something memorable. Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit—gentle, generous, and full of quiet joy—remains a guiding light for those who loved him. 

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