James H. Atkins Jr., 81, (Ex-Chief KFD) beloved son of Hazel I. (Thomas) Atkins and James H. Atkins Sr. passed away on Sunday, April 3, 2022, at The NJ Firemen's Home in Boonton, NJ.
He is survived by his love, June (Miller) Atkins, sons and spouses, James H. & Melissa Atkins III, David R. & Deana Atkins, grandchildren and spouses Karolann & Michael (Atkins) Bourret, Terre & Amber Atkins, James H. & Elizabeth Atkins IV, and great-grandchildren Phoenix and Penelope Bourret.
Jim was a graduate of Keyport High School and Monmouth University, earning a BA in Psychology & a BA in Arts. Throughout his life, he had achieved many accomplishments/accolades and was a member of numerous organizations including, Master Mason of the Caesarea Lodge No 64 of Keyport, the Civil Air Patrol, Keyport Board of Health, Emergency Management Coordinator, Monmouth County Police & Fire Academy, and received the first issued Firefighter Level I certificate in the State of NJ.
Jim successfully operated a photography business encompassing school pictures, weddings, police & fire for multiple municipalities, along with freelance work for many newspapers. He was very proud that a photo of his was published in Life Magazine (1970). His career gave him the opportunity to take his family on extended trips coast to coast, creating many unforgettable memories. He was an avid camper and world traveler.
Photography was his career, but the Keyport Volunteer Fire Department was a passion and his drive in life. He is a life member of KFD. His membership began with Eagle Hose (1963-1966) and continued with Raritan Hose (1966-2014). Through this organization, he made many lifelong friends which he truly cherished.
Jim was Chief of KFD in 1990. In his words from the Firemen’s Ball book “To be Chief of the Keyport Volunteer Fire Department for the year 1990 has been the most rewarding time of my life, only my wife and my family have given me more satisfaction”. “In closing, only to say I pray to God that the Final Score when recorded will be Fire 0 Firemen 7.”
Everything is Copasetic.
There will be a private cremation and a memorial service held at a later date.
Memories and condolences may be made on https://www.thompsonmemorial.net/ and memorial donations can be made to: Keyport Volunteer Fire Dept or New Jersey Firemen's Home, Boonton, NJ.
