Jane Elizabeth Atkinson

Jane Elizabeth Atkinson of Richmond died Thursday, September 1, 2016. She was born in Norfolk, VA on June 15, 1923 and was predeceased by her parents, Cyrus and Fannie May Atkinson and her sister, Mary Frances Hoenshel. Jane attended public schools in Norfolk and graduated from Maury High School in 1941. She attended the Norfolk Division of William and Mary-VPI for two years and then the College of William and Mary where she was a member of Delta Delta Delta, with graduation in 1945. She enjoyed her many friendships and association with the Tri Delts over the years including the “Golden Pearls” in Richmond. Jane moved to Richmond in 1950 and worked at MCV for two years under a grant with the American Cancer Society. From 1954 through 1957 she worked under other grants for clinical research. She was employed by MCV in the chemistry department until retirement in 1980. From 1982 to 1995 she was a travel counselor at the Richmond Visitors Center. She thoroughly enjoyed meeting and talking with people from all over the world and sharing Richmond with them. From 1995, Jane enjoyed her retirement with her two favorite cats, Mr. Cook and Martin Frobischer. She loved all animals, but especially cats. She loved classical music and supported the Richmond Symphony. She loved sports, was an avid bridge player, and a member of Mensa. She is survived by a niece, Sally Curran (Tex) of Raleigh, NC and a nephew, Robert Hoenshel (Kandy) of Jacksonville, FL; and their children and grandchildren. Also surviving are cousins, Cary Upshur (Arlene) of Virginia Beach and Henry Upshur (Michaele) of Richmond. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Best Friends of Kanab, UT or Macular Degeneration Research. A memorial service will be conducted 2 p.m. Saturday, October 8, 2016, at the Parham Chapel, Woody Funeral Home, 1771 N. Parham Road.