Nancy Atkins
Nancy Atkins, age 77, passed away peacefully on Feb. 18, 2025, at AHC Nursing Home. She was born on Aug. 25, 1947, in Akron, Ohio, and will be remembered for her vibrant personality, quick wit and love of life.
Nancy had a great sense of humor and was known for her laughter, creativity and passion for helping others. She loved music, her church and spending time with her many friends, who meant so much to her. Nancy also had a deep love for animals and was devoted to her two tiny chihuahuas, Bella and Roxy, who are now being lovingly cared for by her family. She found joy in her home and her yard, where she loved to spend her time.
Nancy married John Atkins in 1986, and they shared 38 wonderful years of marriage, living in Union City together for their entire married life. She missed John deeply after his passing on Aug. 18, 2024.
Nancy also was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Jack; her sister, Sue; and her stepson, Doug Atkins.
She is survived by her son, Mark Keel and his wife, Maria Keel, and their children, Mavaney, Noah, Isabelle, Grant and Daphne; and her daughter, Kelly Redden and her husband, Shane Redden, and their children Kate, Andrew and Emily. She is also survived by John’s family, David (Linda) Atkins of Alden, Mich., Steve (Kay Fleming) Atkins of Jackson, Mich., and Tim (Wayne Gooding) Atkins of Jackson, Mich.; daughter-in-law, Pennie Atkins of Jackson, Mich.; and her brother, Ted Jones of Cleveland, Ohio.
Additionally, she leaves behind her stepgrandchildren, Heather, William (Tatiana), Autumn (Jimmy) and Ben (Austin); stepgreat-grandchildren, Masen, Ciara, Emeri, Dominic and Liam; and stepgreat-great-granddaughter, Madisen.
The family extends their gratitude to her dear and close friends, Magnolia Place Assisted Living and AHC Nursing Home for their love, support and care in her final years.
In accordance with Nancy’s wishes, she will be buried beside her husband, John, at Obion County Memorial Gardens and a Celebration of Life service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, at Shady Grove Methodist Church.
White-Ranson Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
The Messenger/2.20.25