Barry "Bear" Atkins

Barry Len "Bear" Atkins, age 66, of Whiterocks, Utah, passed away March 5, 2026, from a sudden heart attack.

He was born September 25, 1959, in Hobbs, New Mexico, to William and Patricia Bailey Atkins. He married the love of his life, Julie Chivers, on June 18, 1976, in Lapoint, Utah. Bear was a proud husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Together he and Julie opened their home to over 53 foster-children for over 26 years.

Bear drove truck for 35 years hauling crude oil, and he drove a hot-oiler for five years.

He loved his family very much and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Bear is survived by his wife of almost 50 years, Julie; children, Tex (Irene) Atkins, Kay (Jerry) Hall, Terresa (Roger) Gardner, Christina (Josh) Roberson, TJ Bear (Joz) Atkins, Melissa “Lick” Richards, Benito (Lanie) UncaSam; grandchildren, Kaeleigh & Tyral Garcia, Damian Hall, Mattie (Mason) Pierceall, Roman & Faith Gardner, Julee, Tyli & Dax Roberson, Brixton Atkins, Heston Richards, LuLu & Izzie UncaSam; great-grandchildren, Emmett & Eleni Caldwell, Mavis & Jeremy Hall; siblings, Tim (Julia) Atkins, Bo (Carol) Atkins, Travis Atkins, Jr., Patrick (Monica) Atkins; and numerous nieces, nephews, and grandchildren by choice.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William & Patricia.

There will be a public viewing for him on Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the Hullinger Mortuary. Following the viewing there will be cremation.