Justin Atchison, avid hunter, sportsman, and coach, died in a hunting accident on November 10, 2018. He was 24. “Atch” started playing sports from the moment he could hold a ball in his hands and began hunting from the moment his dad placed a rifle in his hands. If he wasn’t on a ball field, he could be found in his favorite hunting spot.
Justin Allen Atchison was born September 27, 1994 to Mike and Beth Atchison in Springfield, Missouri. He graduated from Willard High School in 2013. Justin played baseball and was named COC Pitcher of the Year and helped the varsity team make it to the Final Four twice with career stats at 15-1 with 5 saves. He also was the quarterback for the varsity football team. Justin went on to play baseball at the collegiate level for Evangel University for 2 years until a shoulder injury ended his playing career. At the time of his death, he was a student at Missouri State University finishing his teaching degree.
Justin was a long time member of Crossway Baptist Church in Springfield and was saved in January of 2009; anyone that knew him, heard of his faith and his love for God. He loved to be outdoors, was passionate about God’s creation, and thoroughly enjoyed his time working on the farm. He was Head Varsity Assistant and Pitching Coach for the Willard Baseball Team and Assistant Head and Offensive Line Coach for the Willard Football Team. In his free time, he assisted in teaching Hunter Safety Courses. His biggest thrill was sharing his knowledge and skill to assist rookie hunters (of all ages) to ensure the best experience. So many stories have been shared of Justin spending his time helping anyone in need, mentoring, and just sharing a cup of coffee. His legacy surpasses our scope of understanding.
Justin is preceded in death by his Papa William (Bill) Muench, Great Grandpa William (Bill) Askew, Great Grandma Carrie Pullam, and Great Great Grandma Tinnin.
He is survived by his parents Michael and Elizabeth Atchison of Willard; his Irish twin sister, who he adored, Mikayla Wilson and her husband and dear friend, Bryce Wilson of Springfield; his grandparents, Allen and Kathy Atchison of Willard, Maggie (Muench) and Len Thies of Springfield; great grandparents Walter and Florence Atchison of Willard, and Doris Askew of Springfield; 4 aunts and their husbands; 11 cousins; and innumerable extended family. There are so many who loved Justin who became his chosen family and lifelong friends.
The family is overwhelmed by support and love shown to them during this time. Thank you to the Willard and Springfield Community for your expressions of love.
Services will be at Crossway Baptist Church (2900 N. Barnes Ave in Springfield) on November 17, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. The family will receive friends at the close of the service. Burial will follow at White Chapel Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, tax deductible donations can be made to the Justin Atchison Scholarship Fund c/o Willard Children’s Charity Fund, 500 E. Kime St, Willard, MO 65781.