Royce Linn "Chet" Atkins

Royce Linn "Chet" Atkins, 92, of Phoenix, AZ, passed away peacefully at his home on May 20, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Matherville, IL, on August 29, 1932, Royce was the third son of Royce and Marie (Linn) Atkins. A proud veteran, he served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict and was honorably discharged under the Sullivan Act.

Royce was devoted to his beloved wife, Betty Louise (Dolleslager) Atkins, with whom he shared 72 wonderful years of marriage. Throughout his career, he worked at Iowana Dairy, served as a switchman for the Rock Island Lines, and later became a respected bus driver for Phoenix Transit—where he was honored as "Bus Driver of the Year." He retired in 2005.

Beyond his work, Royce found joy in collecting coins and traveling across the country to visit his children. He was cherished by many and will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, and unwavering love for his family.

Royce is survived by his wife, Betty Louise Atkins, 93; children, Cindy (Tom) Gibson of Cave Creek, AZ, Doreen Atkins of Sag Harbor, NY, Marc (Theresa) Atkins of Albuquerque, NM, Robyn Atkins of Phoenix, AZ, Lisa Atkins of Scottsdale, AZ, and Todd (Karen) Atkins of Sarasota, FL; as well as grandchildren, Marcus (Shannon) Atkins, Matthew Atkins, Riley Gibson, Connor Atkins, and Mia Atkins.

A visitation will be held at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ, 85018, on the morning of Thursday, May 29, 2025, beginning at 9:00 AM. Burial will follow at 12:30 PM at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 2929 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd, Phoenix, AZ, 85024.

Royce will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.