For JayD Atkinson, sports were never just about the game. They were a constant throughout his life in Princeton, shaping his sense of connection, community, and belonging.

Earlier this year, the Atkinson family created the JayD Atkinson’s Princeton Spirit of Sports Legacy Fund in memory of their son, James David “JayD” Atkinson. It’s a way to recognize what mattered to him, and to carry that forward in the town he called home.

In the months since the Fund was established, friends, family, old coworkers, and community members have shown their support in different ways. Many have already contributed to the Fund, each one choosing to be part of honouring JayD’s memory. Alongside those individual gifts, a group of his friends organized a golf fundraiser that raised an incredible $7,000.

It’s not one single gesture, but many. People showing up in their own ways, like a team, each person playing their part.

The Fund has been set up as an endowment, which means it will give back to Princeton for generations. It will support local recreation, with the intention of helping others experience the same sense of connection and belonging that sports can offer.

What started with his family has grown, with many others choosing to be part of it.

JayD Atkinson (James David) was born and raised in Princeton, BC (October 1, 1973 – January 22, 2026). From a young age through to adulthood, sports and the outdoors were a constant — from hockey and football to dirt biking, snowmobiling, skiing, and golf. He later studied golf course management and contributed to course development both away and at home in Princeton. For JayD, sports were about more than the game, they reflected values like teamwork, leadership, and loyalty.

These reflections are shared by his parents, Jaymie and David Atkinson. Their full reflections and more about Jayd Atkinson’s Princeton Spirit of Sports Legacy Fund can be found here.