Jane Ann Atkinson

Jane Ann Sparks Atkinson went home to be with the Lord at Hospice of the Upstate in Anderson, SC on Saturday, June 26, 2021 following a long illness. She was surrounded by her loving family.

Born November 22, 1928, she was the daughter of the late Major Sparks and the late Ruby Bowman Sparks Creed. She was preceded in death by her husband, Beuran Atkinson, to whom she was married for 63 years. She was also predeceased by her daughter, Deborah McClure; grandsons, Mark Atkinson and William Atkinson, II; sister, Louise Zankowitz; brothers, James Sparks, George Sparks, Fred Sparks and Major Sparks, Jr. She was the last member of her immediate family.

She was lovely, kind and generous. The picture of the Proverbs 31 woman. While raising a family, Jane Ann partnered and worked with her husband in the grocery and real estate businesses until they retired. Over her life, she faithfully served her Lord, Jesus Christ. She taught children’s Sunday School, worked in the Awana program, sang in the choir and served in a plethora of ministry opportunities at the Beckley Regular Baptist Church. She was a member of Memorial Baptist Church. She enjoyed traveling, knitting, reading and fellowship with her friends.

She is survived by sons, Barney Atkinson (Mary) and Bill Atkinson (Sharon); daughter, Karen Eller (Ross); and son-in-law, David McClure. Known as Nanny to her adoring grandchildren, she leaves Kelli Morrison (Todd), Amanda Owens (Tommy), Kristin Spinks (Jamie), Carrie Parker (Victor), and Sam Atkinson (Nikki). Great-grandchildren include Jake Morrison, Savannah Lynn, Eli Morrison, Ethan Lynn, Asa Morrison, Kaleb Spinks, Grayson Spinks, Lily Morrison, Jackson Spinks, and Ellie Atkinson. She had many special nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

We will always hold in our hearts and memory her words of wisdom. One of her Nannyisms was “just be right” meaning always do the right thing. She left for us a pattern of a life well-lived; we are forever grateful for the godly heritage she portrayed and instilled in us.

Services will be held at Blue Ridge Funeral Home, Prosperity, WV on Tuesday, July 6, 2021. Friends may call two hours before the service from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Services will immediately follow at 1:00 pm with Dr. Charles Bright. Family members will serve as Pallbearers.

She often said she looked forward to reuniting with family and friends in heaven and rejoicing around the throne of God together. We cling to the blessed hope when we meet again and join that reunion. Maranatha!