Garland Atkinson

DECEMBER 15, 1949–OCTOBER 17, 2024
By Shellie Cervantes

During the almost 20 years of our victim advocacy journey, Gene and I have had the blessed opportunity to assist and become friends with countless families of homicide victims. Rarely do we speak of these special friendships, however, today will be the exception.

Gene and I “met” Garland Atkinson the beginning of 2010. He reached out to us regarding the unsolved double homicide of his son, Andy and girlfriend, Cheryl Henry (the “Lovers Lane Killings). Citizens Against Homicide featured their tragic story in our CAH October 2010 Newsletter. There was an instant connection with Garland; his strong, friendly North Carolina accent, stellar sense of humor and an unrelenting determination for justice—something he wanted so badly before “leaving this earth.” read more