Harley Joseph Atkinson Jr., affectionately known as Joe, passed away on March 5, 2026, in Washington, IN, at the age of 83. Born on June 20, 1942, in Brownstown, IN, Joe’s journey through life was marked by devotion to his loved ones, a dedication to service, and the joy he found in simple pleasures.
Joe proudly served his country as a member of the US Navy Medical Corps, offering his compassionate care to those in need. Following his military service, he worked on the railroad and embraced the freedom of entrepreneurship through self-employment. Love was a central theme in Joe’s life, celebrated in his marriage to Connie Jane “Abbott” Atkinson on October 8, 1966, in Washington, IN. Their union was a testament to an enduring partnership until Connie’s passing.
Even after attending school, Joe was a lifelong learner with a curious mind and skillful hands. He possessed a passion for trains and tinkering, pouring his ingenuity into creating intricate villages that transformed his garage into a wondrous landscape. His love for mechanical restoration was evident in the way he brought old lawn mowers back to life and in the pride he took in his woodworking projects. Joe’s mechanical acumen shone brightly as he reassembled a Model A car from disparate parts, creating countless memories for his children and grandchildren as they cruised alongside him.
Fostering children was another expression of Joe’s boundless capacity to love, opening his home and heart to those in need of a safe and nurturing environment. His greatest construction was his family home, a symbol of love’s tangible presence, echoing his words, “This is the house that love built.”
Faith was the cornerstone of Joe’s existence—his devotion was apparent to all who knew him as the epitome of a faithful servant. A founding member and builder of New Hope Christian Church, he invested not only his spirit but also his labor into the church’s foundation. His character—genuine, steadfast, and generous—embodied the qualities of a truly salt-of-the-earth individual, someone who reveled in life’s simplicity.
Joe leaves behind a legacy through his beloved children, Benjamin David Atkinson (Allison Jeanne), Aaron Joseph Atkinson (Janel J.), and Shawna Marie Christen (Jeremy Scott). His ten grandchildren, Gabriel (Hope), Malcolm, Gideon, Penelope, Hunter (Tori), Hannah (Corey), Olivia (Zack), Caleb, Elizabeth, and Ethan, and his ten great-grandchildren, will carry forward his spirit of kindness and resilience. Preceding him in death were his cherished wife, Connie Atkinson, his parents, Harley Joseph Atkinson Sr. and Mabel “Jones” Atkinson, his great-grandson Jonah Nance, and his four dear sisters.
A respected and beloved resident of Washington for many years, Joe’s departure leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him. His was a life well-lived, rich with moments of love, service, and faith that profoundly touched a community. Harley Joseph Atkinson Jr.’s memory will be honored and cherished by all as a testament to a life of purpose and joy.
There will be a visitation held on Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at New Hope Christian Church. A service will follow at 12:00 p.m., officiated by Pastor Steven Johnson. Burial will conclude at Sugarland Memorial Gardens. Memorial donations may be made to the Compassion Team at New Hope Christian Church. Online condolences and fond memories may be made at www.fredrickandson.com. Fredrick and Son-Gill Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with Joe’s arrangements.
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