Richard Jason Atkinson, lovingly known as Jason to his family and friends, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2026, at St. Dominic’s Hospital in Jackson, Mississippi. Born on April 2, 1974, in Jackson, Jason lived a life filled with love, adventure, determination, and countless memories that will forever be treasured by those who knew him.

Jason attended Hillcrest Christian School and began what would become a long and dedicated career with AFLAC in 1994. He was a hardworking and determined man who took pride in what he did. Those who knew Jason will remember his kind heart, his strong personality, his competitive spirit, and the way he approached life with passion and enthusiasm.

Jason was a man of many interests, and when something captured his attention, he gave it his all. He loved traveling, playing golf, skiing, boarding, hunting, and spending time outdoors. Hunting was especially meaningful to him, and he often enjoyed the preparation and anticipation of hunting season just as much as the hunt itself. He also enjoyed competitive shooting, concealed carry classes, 4-H competitions, and his involvement with Gunline in Carthage. He had a special passion for trading stocks in the stock market, something he approached with the same determination and excitement that he brought to so many areas of his life.

But beyond his career, his hobbies, and all the things he loved to do, there was one role that meant more to Jason than anything else in this world—being a dad. Of everything Jason accomplished in his lifetime, nothing made him prouder than his son, Rylan. Being Rylan’s father was not simply a part of Jason’s life; it was his greatest joy, his greatest blessing, and without question, his greatest accomplishment. The love he had for his son was unlike anything else. He was proud of the young man Rylan was becoming and cherished the moments they shared together.

Whether they were attending concealed carry classes, participating in competitions, enjoying the outdoors, or simply spending time together, those moments meant more to Jason than words could ever express. He wasn’t just sharing his hobbies with his son; he was sharing pieces of himself, creating memories, passing along knowledge, and building a bond that time can never take away.

If Jason could have chosen one thing to be remembered for, it would have been the love he had for his son and the privilege of being his dad. No achievement, possession, or success could ever compare to what fatherhood meant to him. Rylan was his pride and joy, and the love Jason had for him will remain a part of his son’s life forever.

Jason was also a beloved husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend. To his wife, Jes, he was more than a husband. He was the person with whom she shared a life, a family, countless memories, and a love that will not end with his passing. Like any life shared together, theirs was made up of everyday moments, laughter, challenges, dreams, and experiences that became part of their story. Those memories, both big and small, are now priceless treasures that she will carry in her heart forever.

To those closest to him, Jason was simply Jason—one of a kind, unforgettable, and deeply loved. He had his own way of doing things, his own passions, and a personality that could never be replaced. He loved deeply, lived with determination, and left his mark on the people fortunate enough to be part of his life.

Jason leaves behind his loving wife, Jes Atkinson; his beloved son, Rylan Layne Atkinson; his mother, Anita Atkinson; his brother, Chris Atkinson; and his nieces, Samantha Hester, Kelsey Patterson, Mattie Atkinson, and Emma Atkinson. He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, extended family members, and friends whose lives were touched by his presence.

He was preceded in death by his father, Buddy Atkinson; his grandparents, Gonnie and Mable Dorris; and Mack and Mattie Atkinson.

The loss of Jason leaves an emptiness that words cannot begin to describe. Fifty-two years will never seem like enough time with someone so deeply loved. There were still memories to make, places to go, conversations to have, and moments to share. Although his family must now learn to navigate life without his physical presence, the love he gave them will remain.

For Jes, the memories of their life together will always hold a special place in her heart. For Rylan, his father’s love, lessons, encouragement, and the time they shared will forever be part of who he is. And for everyone who loved Jason, his memory will live on in the stories told, the laughter remembered, and the moments that remind them of him.

Jason’s life was about so much more than the dates that marked its beginning and end. It was about the people he loved, the memories he made, and the pieces of himself he left behind in the hearts of his family.

His greatest accomplishment was being a father. His greatest pride was his son. And his greatest legacy will always be the love he leaves behind.

Though we would give anything for one more conversation, one more laugh, one more hug, or simply one more ordinary day together, we will hold tightly to the memories and love that even death cannot take away.

Jason, you were deeply loved, you will be forever missed, and you will always be a part of us.

Visitation and Funeral Services

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 16, 2026, from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Chancellor Funeral Home in Florence, located at 2576 US 49, Florence, Mississippi 39073.

A second visitation will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 10:30 AM until 11:30 AM at First Baptist Church of Florence, located at 102 E Main Street, Florence, Mississippi 39073. Funeral services will follow at 11:30 AM at the church. Interment will take place in the Garden of Memories at Chancellor Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the AFLAC Children’s Cancer Center in loving memory of Jason.