Ronald Lee Atkinson, 77, Indianapolis, passed away peacefully at home on April 19, 2016 as he went to be with the Lord. He was the child of Enoch and Florence (Ruark) Atkinson on November 17, 1938 in Terre Haute. He married Judith (Ruddock) Atkinson on August 27, 1960.

He went to Perth, a two-room school and Bee Ridge, a four-room school, before graduating from Brazil High School in 1957. He earned his Bachelor and Masters Degrees from Indiana State University. He worked his way through college working at American Vitrified Clay Plant, a filling station and typesetting. As a teen, he worked in the field for farmers.

Ronald was an Assistant Principal at Ben Davis Jr. High when he retired in 1996; but worked a total of 35 years for the Metropolitan School District of Wayne Township. After he retired, he enjoyed driving cars for Avis. He was a member of Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church in Indianapolis and National Education Association. He was also a charter member of the Dick Johnson Township Volunteer Fire Department in Clay County. He loved his family dearly. He enjoyed camping, woodworking and being outdoors. He lived most of his life in Indianapolis.

Ronald is survived by his wife of 55 years, Judith Atkinson of Indianapolis; three sons, Brian Atkinson of Indianapolis, Scott Atkinson of Indianapolis and Paul (Jodi) Atkinson of Mooresville; four grandchildren, Carrie, William, Joshua and Matthew Atkinson; a brother, Danny Atkinson; and dear friends, Mike and Linda (Sis) Davis. Ronald is preceded in death by his parents.

Family and friends may gather from 4- 8 p.m. on Friday, April 22, 2016 in Jones Family Mortuary, Mooresville and 10-11 a.m., Saturday, April 23, 2016 at Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, 6341 Mann Road, Indianapolis, IN 46221. Pastor John Dunaway will officiate Ronald's celebration of life at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 23, 2016 at Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church. Ronald will be laid to rest in West Newton Cemetery, Indianapolis.

Memorial contributions can be made to Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, 6341 Mann Road, Indianapolis, IN 46221.

You are invited to light a virtual candle and send a message to the family via the internet. www.jonesfamilymortuary.com