Della Fay Atkins

Della Fay Atkins entered heaven on Monday October 23, 2023. She was born to Woodrow and Mae Dolinger in Fairfax Virginia on February 1, 1938. Della, the most loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt, is survived by her husband Jerry, daughter Rebecca (Chris) McDonald, grandchildren Ashley McDonald, CJ McDonald, and Adam (Mandi) Dickerson, and great grandchildren Jodi and AJ Dickerson. She was preceded in death by her daughter Tammie (George) Dickerson. She was a devout Christian and a devoted wife. Her greatest love was her husband, Jerry, with whom she shared 65 years of unconditional, selfless love. They were completely devoted to each other and found an incredible joy in creating a life together. Their love for antique cars, especially Mustangs, was well known. Of all the gifts that Jerry gave Della, her 1965 Mustang was by far her most treasured. As time moved on, their love for each other continued to grow. Towards the end of her life, when the rest of her body had failed, including her sight, the sound of his voice would bring her visible joy and comfort. He stood by her side until her last breath. Della’s artistic talents knew no limits. In her life, she designed and built countless life-size props and sewed elaborate costumes for church events, as well as her grandchildren’s school productions. She was an incredible baker and was known for her stunning cakes. Most unique to Della were her Apple dolls, many of which live on in the homes of others. Sculpting miniature people out of nothing but an apple, she sewed together their tiny outfits and fitted them in their cloches before selling them far and wide at boutiques and fairs. For Della, there was nothing that she couldn’t create. Della adored her family, and her passing is felt by all. Her life was filled with happiness, joy, sorrows, and trials, but through it all, she gave unconditional support, encouragement, forgiveness, and, most of all, love. Her absence leaves an unfillable gap in the hearts of those who loved her. She will be forever remembered. Della always said that life had blessed her with many treasures, but that her greatest will be in heaven. That we are sure of. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Insight Memory Care Center. https://www.insightmcc.org/