Gene graduated from Milby High School, received his Bachelor of Arts in physics from Rice University, and earned his Master's and Doctor of Education degrees from the University of Houston. He served as Associate Dean of Instruction and professor of physical science at California State College at Long Beach, before returning to join the faculty at the University of Houston. At UH, Gene served as Associate Dean of the College of Education, Assistant Dean of Faculties, Office of the Executive Vice President and Dean of Faculties. He was Chairperson for the Department of Administration and Supervision, and Director for the Center for International Education, College of Education. Gene traveled abroad to work in establishing university programs in France, Brazil and Mexico. He was involved in accreditation of university programs throughout Texas. An avid amateur radio operator, his call letters were K5AZ. After retirement, he served as an elected member of the Ingram, Texas, I.S.D. School Board. At First United Methodist Church of Kerrville, he taught and did committee work. Having served in World War II and the Korean War, Gene retired from the Naval Reserve, Commander in rank. Predeceased by wife Claudene Douglas Atkinson, father Smith Bachman Atkinson, mother Nellie Shaffer Atkinson, and sister Donna Lee Atkinson, he is survived by his second wife, Vivian Shaw Atkinson, son, Judge Mark Douglas Atkinson and daughter-in-law, Vicki, grandsons, Richard Evans Bowen, Jacob Austin Bowen, Joshua Earl Bowen and Samuel Douglas Atkinson, sisters Ruth Atkinson Vetter and Beverly Atkinson Booher and brother-in-law, Cletis Booher, as well as many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by stepchildren, Glenna Shaw Garcia and husband Edmundo, Suzanne Claire Hamilton and husband Allen, Stuart Dunlop Shaw and wife Kimi, and stepgrandchildren.