Briant K. Atkins' Obituary
Briant K. Atkins, 60, of Locust Grove, VA, passed Thursday, July 6, 2023 at his residence. He was born February 2, 1963 in Virginia to Jean “Pat” Atkins and the late Jeremiah “Dickie” Atkins, III.
Briant's lifelong passion for firefighting ignited at the age of 16 and burned bright throughout his career in the fire service industry, until he was diagnosed with an occupational-related cancer in April 2022. His commitment to the field encompassed all aspects of firefighting, but it was his unmatched expertise in hazardous material response and his unwavering dedication to training and educating fellow firefighters that set him apart. For an impressive span of 31 years, Briant selflessly served the City of Alexandria Fire Department, rising through the ranks to ultimately retire as a Captain in 2013. Even after retiring, his desire to make a difference in fire education led him to take on a new role as the Campus Fire Safety Officer at the University of Mary Washington (UMW). There, he continued to leave an indelible mark on the field. But Briant's desire to protect and support firefighters didn't stop there. Following his time at UMW, he transitioned to the Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP), assuming the position of Chief Safety Officer. In this role, he became a champion for firefighter education and advocated for legislation to safeguard the well-being of active-duty firefighters in the state of Virginia. During his tenure at VDFP, Briant also began to raise awareness for firefighters diagnosed with occupational-related cancer, becoming a powerful advocate for their cause. In 2022, driven by his true passion for hazardous materials response, Briant embraced a new role as the Civilian Hazardous Material Coordinator of Prince William County Fire Department. This allowed him to delve deeper into his expertise and continue making a difference on the frontlines. In addition to his illustrious professional career, Briant was an active member of the volunteer fire departments of Salem and Mine Run, dedicating his time and energy to serving these communities for a number of years, including being a charter and life time member of Salem Volunteer Fire Department. His commitment to firefighting extended far beyond the boundaries of his professional duties, leaving a lasting impact wherever he went.
Outside of his professional career, Briant found immense joy in the company of his family and friends. Together, they embarked on numerous adventures, always approaching them with a smile and a "hell-yeah" attitude. One of his greatest passions was traveling, particularly to destinations blessed with sunny skies and sandy beaches. Additionally, he shared a special bond with his brother and close friends, as they enthusiastically followed the world of horse racing. When it came to sports, Briant was an avid supporter of the Philadelphia Eagles. Always cheering on his beloved team on game days, full of excitement, as he gathered with family and friends to share in the thrill of each touchdown.
He is survived by his wife, Leitha Burke Atkins; children, Eliza K. Richards and husband, Phillip F. Richards, and Madelyn K. Atkins; brother, James P. Atkins (Susan Graves); sister, Kim D. Atkins; and many other family members and cherished friends.
In addition to his father, Briant is preceded in death by his beloved grandson, Liam F. Richards.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 12, 2023 at Salem Fire Hall, 13428 Scotts Mill Rd, Culpeper, VA 22701 with Gregg Hoffman and Michael Burke officiating.
Following the service, the family invites those who attend to join them at Pepper’s Grill, 791 Madison Road, Culpeper, VA 22701 for a traditionally Irish wake, as Briant requested.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be donated to the Virginia Firefighter Cancer Support Network at https://firefightercancersupport.org/how-you-can-help/donate/, the Mine Run Volunteer Fire Department at https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=THZW7E9BCNFZY, or Salem Volunteer Fire Department at https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/SVFDInc.
The family would like to thank his care team with Virginia Oncology, particularly Dr. Manan Mehta and PA Jessica Castiglia; and, the staff who treated him at Mary Washington Hospital.
Honorary Pallbearers serving the family will be Lon Fugate, Dempsey Young, Fulton Lucas, Mike Bailey, Dave Bogozi, Glen Rudner, and the fellow members of his rookie class from the City of Alexandria.
An online guestbook and tribute wall are available at www.foundandsons.com
Found and Sons Funeral Chapel of Culpeper is serving the family.
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