Coeburn, Virginia July 27, 2026

Joseph Bayard “J.B.” Atwood, Jr., 83, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2026.

Born in Pinsonfork, Kentucky, J.B. lived a life defined by service, family, hard work, and community. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 58 years, Freda Ann Culbertson Atwood; his parents, Joseph Bayard Atwood, Sr. and Ann Beverly Atwood; and his sister, Kaye Atwood Saxon.

He is survived by his children: William F. Atwood of Christiansburg, Virginia; Alan Atwood and wife, Suzi, of Coeburn, Virginia; and Susan Atwood Denton and husband, Kelly, of Bristol, Virginia. He was a proud grandfather to Brianne Atwood Alder and husband, Chris; Keely Atwood Trent and husband, Justin; and Garrett Denton. He was also blessed with one great-grandson, Bennett Trent, who brought him tremendous joy.

J.B. was a proud graduate of Coeburn High School, Class of 1961, and attended East Tennessee State University. He honorably served his country in the United States Air Force from 1963 until 1969. Following his military service, he returned home to Coeburn, where he briefly worked for Clinchfield Coal Company before joining the Atwood family business, PayLess Supermarkets, Inc.

Throughout his career, J.B. helped shape one of Southwest Virginia’s respected family businesses. He served as President of PayLess Supermarkets, Inc. from 1984 until his retirement in 2014. Even in retirement, his entrepreneurial spirit continued as owner of PayLess Rentals, Inc.

J.B. was a devoted family man and a loyal friend who enjoyed spending time outdoors. He was an avid sports enthusiast who especially loved the game of golf and found great peace on the water while fishing. He treasured time with family, friends, and the community he proudly called home. His dedication to Coeburn High School was displayed through his work with the Coeburn High School Alumni Association from 1979 - 2014.

The Atwood family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to several special friends and family whose kindness and friendship meant so much to J.B. including Sue Culbertson Fischer (Sister-in-Law), Becky McCarty, David Collins, Henry Collins, Jean Griffith, and his faithful dog: Rocky.

Serving as pallbearers will be Justin Trent, Chris Alder, Henry Collins, Ronald Collins, Deventae Mooney, and David Fischer. Butch Goodnough, Greg Perry and David Collins are honorary pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Eastside High School, P.O. Box 2036 Coeburn, Virginia, in J.B.’s memory.

J.B.’s legacy of integrity, hard work, patriotism, generosity, and dedication to his family and community will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, July 29, 2026, 12:00 PM until 2:00 PM at Sturgill Funeral Home, 310 6th Street NW, Coeburn, VA. Funeral services will follow in the funeral home chapel with retired pastor Marty Puckett officiating. Burial will follow in the Greenwood Acres Cemetery in Coeburn, VA. Please visit www.sturgillfuneral.com to sign guest register book online. Sturgill Funeral Homes 310 6th Street NW Coeburn, Virginia 24230 in charge of arrangements.