Obituary of Birley Atlas Prince

Birley Atlas Prince, 79, passed away peacefully at his daughter’s home in Goodview, VA., on Friday, September 30, 2016 surrounded by family. He was born in Saint Mary’s Township, NC on August 18, 1937 to Estelle and Carl Prince. Birley’s proudest accomplishment in life was marrying his wife Janice and being known as Dad to their six children. While living in Raleigh, NC, a friend of Birley’s encouraged him to reach out to his childhood friend in his hometown of Worcester, MA. After finally meeting Janice in person, they fell in love, married and relocated the family to Roanoke, VA, where they had a son together and lived throughout the remainder of their lives. Upon moving to Roanoke, he was manager of Charcoal Burger restaurant prior to managing the Orange Market convenience store in Cave Springs for many years. He and Janice later purchased their own convenience store, Craig Avenue Superette, in Salem, VA. After selling the business, Birley worked as a custodian for Roanoke County Schools where he retired in 1999. He was a positive role model for his children and a hard worker who at times held two jobs in order to support his family. To this day, his strong work ethic serves as inspiration to his children. Birley enjoyed Johnny Cash, chewing tobacco, and out-eating anyone at the dinner table. His hobbies included restoring antique cars. Among his favorites was a 1949 Ford coupe that won many awards at various car shows and exhibitions. Later in life, he took pleasure in baking cakes for people he loved and valued. Birley is preceded in death by his wife of 34 years Janice Bourbeau Prince; parents Carl and Estelle; sisters Rochelle, Dorothy, and Betty Ree and brother Carl, Jr. He is survived by his son Mark Erickson and wife Mary of Roanoke, VA; daughter Christine Erickson Weibush of Orlando, FL; son David Erickson and wife Pam of Vinton, VA; daughter Linda Bousman and husband Billy of Goodview, VA; daughter Sandra Blevins and husband Norman of Roanoke, VA; son Bobby Prince of Memphis, TN; nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren who affectionately called him Paw-Paw; his twin sister Shirley Tuplin of Fuquay-Varina, NC; many nieces and nephews; several extended family members in Massachusetts and North Carolina; and others he considered family. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, October 8 at Calvary Baptist Church 7th & Florida St., Salem, VA. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift in Birley’s memory to the charity of your choice or to Calvary Baptist Church, P.O. Box 789, Salem, VA 24153. Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home & Crematory, 540-366-0707.