George Henry Atkinson, Jr., beloved husband, father, and football legend, passed away on October 26, 2025, in Georgia, at the age of 78.

George was born on January 4, 1947, in Savannah, Georgia, to the late George and Eva Mae (Baker) Atkinson. From his earliest years, George, affectionately known as "Butch", and his parents were members of St. Benedict the Moor Catholic Parish. There, he received the Sacraments of Initiation and faithfully served as an altar boy. George graduated from the parish school in 1960, after first attending Spencer Elementary School. By that time, his remarkable athletic ability and unwavering determination were already evident, traits that would later define his life and career.

George continued his education at St. Pius X, and moved on to Sol C. Johnson High School, where he helped lead his team to the 1963 Class AA Championship game and graduated proudly as a member of the Class of 1964. He went on to attend Morris Brown College in Atlanta, Georgia, where he excelled athletically. His success at Morris Brown led to his selection by the Oakland Raiders in the seventh round of the 1968 NFL Draft.

George burst into the professional ranks with unmatched energy and talent. In his debut season, he returned an 86-yard punt for a touchdown, signaling the beginning of a celebrated professional career. He quickly gained acclaim as one of the hardest-hitting defensive backs in the league, earning a share of the AFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award and selections to the AFL All-Star team for two seasons.

As a cornerstone of the Raiders' famed "Soul Patrol" secondary, alongside Jack Tatum, Willie Brown, and Skip Thomas, George helped define the defensive intensity of the 1970s. His leadership and skill contributed to five consecutive AFC Championship appearances and culminated in a victory in Super Bowl XI following the 1976 season. Known for his fearless play and fierce hits, George earned the nickname "Hit Man," a testament to his dedication and toughness on the field.

Over the course of his 11-year professional career, George played in 144 games, recording 30 regular-season interceptions and three postseason interceptions. He spent ten seasons with the Oakland Raiders before concluding his career with the Denver Broncos.

George's personal journey was marked by resilience and courage. He faced life's greatest trials with grace, including the tragic losses of his twin sons, George Atkinson III and Joshua Atkinson, both of whom followed in his athletic footsteps at the University of Notre Dame. Despite these profound losses, George remained steadfast in his faith.

In 2007, George met the former Denise Fee, with whom he shared a deep and enduring bond. Their relationship blossomed into a lifelong partnership, and they were united in marriage in 2021, sharing years of love, laughter, and mutual devotion.

After retiring, George remained devoted to the Raiders organization as a mentor, broadcaster, and host of Behind the Shield. His leadership, humor, and kindness inspired generations of players and fans alike.

George was preceded in death by his parents, George and Eva Mae Atkinson, and his beloved sons, George Atkinson III and Joshua Atkinson.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Denise Atkinson; his children Michele Atkinson, Charlotte, NC; Craig Atkinson, Charlotte, NC; Maria D. Smalls Hippard, Savannah, GA; Jeremy L. (Atkinson) Wright (Nidia), Fayetteville, NC; Angela Atkinson, Columbus, OH; Maya Atkinson, Columbus, OH; Brittany Atkinson, Atlanta, GA; Morgann Atkinson, Santa Rosa, CA, and stepdaughter, Alivia Duffas (Clifton), Ellabell, GA;  as well as a host of grandchildren, extended family, former teammates, and friends.

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