Kenneth Merritt Atkins

Born February 12, 1949 and departing on Thursday, December 1, Ken was the son of the late Juanita Cyrus Atkins and Elmo Quincy Atkins.  A Raleigh native and graduate of Broughton High School and N.C. State University, he was born at Rex Hospital and grew up on Dixie Trail. 14 years old and tired of working in the tobacco fields he took a job at the NC Museum of Natural Sciences.  A strong work ethic would carry him through life.  His first foray into economic development occurred in Franklin County.  From there he took a position with the Catawba County Economic Development Corporation, bringing companies to the Hickory area for 15 years.  When the opportunity to come home called in 1997 Ken enthusiastically returned to Raleigh to serve as the Executive Director of Wake County Economic Development at the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce, profoundly impacting his hometown for 16 years before announcing his retirement in 2013.  He was then hired by the law firm of Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton as Director of Economic Development, leading corporate recruitment efforts for Preston Development and the Chatham Park project.  Ken was active in the North Carolina Economic Developers Association and was named North Carolina’s Economic Developer of the Year in 2007.  Well-loved within the business community, those who knew Ken hold special memories of his great mentorship and friendship. Ken enjoyed being with his family at his home on Elmo’s Pond and on his boat in Morehead City.  His family was his number one priority and his number one love.  He is survived by his wife of forty years, Glad (Wylie) Atkins, his son Cyrus Atkins, his daughter and son-in-law, Merritt Atkins and Brian O’Haver, and a sister, Dianne Hartgrove, all of Raleigh.  Ken is also survived by eleven nieces and nephews, eight great nieces and nephews, and many extended family members.  His loyal black lab Boot will miss their nightly ball toss and chase. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, December 7 at 1 pm at Hayes Barton United Methodist Church, visitation to follow.  In lieu of flowers, Ken would appreciate that donations be made to Hayes Barton United Methodist Church or the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America.