A community in Killylea is mourning the sudden death of Reverend Bill Atkins, who served as Rector of Killylea, Caledon and Brantry. Reverend Bill died on Thursday after suffering the onset of a heart attack last week, according to a report published by the Belfast Telegraph on 23 October 2026.
The news has left the Armagh community shocked and saddened. His death was announced by the Select Vestry of St Mark’s Parish Church, which paid tribute to a rector remembered for his religious service, leadership and care for others.
Tribute from St Mark’s Parish Church
St Mark’s said Reverend Bill was a devoted servant of God who had faithfully served the Lord, guided his people and dedicated his life to the work of the church. The parish also recognised the lasting legacy of his ministry and leadership.
“Our hearts are saddened by this great loss, and we mourn the passing of a devoted servant of God who faithfully served the Lord, guided His people, and dedicated their life to the work of His Kingdom.”
The church expressed its sympathy to Reverend Bill’s wife, Jamila, his son, Mark, and the wider family circle. Its message also included the clergy and the entire church community, asking that those grieving receive comfort and strength during what it described as a painful loss.
“During this difficult time, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Jamila, Mark & the family circle, the clergy, and the entire church community. May the Lord comfort and strengthen everyone grieving this painful loss.”
Remembered by the Boys’ Brigade
1st Caledon Boys’ Brigade also paid tribute to Reverend Bill, describing him as a valued member of its family. The organisation said his faith, kindness, guidance and support had made a significant difference to its officers, boys and the wider community.
Members said his presence would be greatly missed at the company’s weekly Bible class sessions. They described his passing as sudden and said their thoughts and prayers were with his wife, son and wider family as they come to terms with the loss.
“Rev Bill was a valued part of our Boys’ Brigade family, and his faith, kindness, guidance and support meant so much to our officers, boys and the wider community.”
The company also gave thanks for the time it shared with Reverend Bill, his faithful service and the positive impact he had on many people.
“As a company, we give thanks for the time we shared with Rev Bill, for his faithful service and for the positive impact he made on so many lives.”
Reverend Bill is survived by his wife Jamila, his son Mark, his siblings and the wider family circle. The tributes reflect the breadth of his role across parish life and the Boys’ Brigade, as people in Killylea, Caledon, Brantry and beyond remember his service and kindness.