Mr. Morris Ray Atkins, 77, of Grenada, passed away Tuesday, August 23, 2022 at the University of Mississippi Medical Center – Grenada after a lengthy illness.  He was born January 12, 1945 in Columbus to Walter Lee and Delsie Ipock Atkins.  Ray was a US Navy veteran and honorably served our country for two tours to Vietnam aboard the USS Topeka.  He worked many years in the construction industry from which he eventually retired.  In the 1990s, he was the proud owner and operator of Papa Ray's Pizza in Cherokee, AL.  In his spare time, Ray was an avid woodworker and created many beautiful pieces for his friends and family.

He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Marilyn Dotson Atkins of Grenada; one sister, Jeanette O'Barr of Columbus; and his children, Christie Parisi of Navarre, FL, Jamie Taylor(John) of Columbus, Harold Atkins(Robin) of Sykesville, MD, Christina Mollard(John) of Tulsa, OK, Angie Golding(Tim) of Grenada and Amy Bradshaw(Jimmy) of Pope.  He also leaves behind 13 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

The family would like to say thank you to the Doctors and Nursing Staff at UMMC for the care he received.  They would also like to say a very special thank you to his friend and caregiver, Shelia Small.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.mckibbenandguinn.com .

Arrangements are private and have been entrusted to McKibben and Guinn Funeral Service in Grenada, (662-307-2694).