It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Kenneth Earl Atkins, of Charleston on Monday, October 21, 2024, at the age of 85 years.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Virginia E. Atkins in 2020; son Brian K. Atkins in 1988; son Glenn A. Atkins in 2010. He is survived by sisters-in-law Judith Smith and Ethel Williams; brother-in-law Sam Williams and wife Kathy; cousin Sue Layne; and many loving nieces and nephews.

Ken was born on February 20, 1939, to Murl and Mildred Atkins in Fayette County, WV. He graduated from Montgomery High School and went on to get a B.S. in chemistry from WV Institute of Technology. He joined Union Carbide’s Research and Development in 1960 and later completed his M.S. degree at WVU. His work with synthetics, composites, and other materials has been applied in both North America and Europe in the automotive industry over the last 40+ years. Ken received the Union Carbide Technical Achievement Award in 1986, was appointed Corporate Fellow in 1989, and retired after 38 years of company service with Carbide. He has 25 U.S. Patents, 46 publications, and chapters in 3 books on composites.

Beyond his remarkable career, Ken was a loving and devoted husband, father, brother-in-law, cousin, and uncle. His gentle manner and easygoing nature provided a calm presence to those close to him. Ken’s keen intellect was paired with warmth and kindness for which he will always be remembered.

By request, there will be no services. Burial will be in Sunset Memorial Park, South Charleston.