Barbara Jean Atkins

Mrs. Barbara Jean (Reedy) Atkins, age 82 of Hiawassee, Georgia passed away Tuesday, June 11, 2019 at Brasstown Manor after an extended illness. Barbara was born August 5, 1936 to the late Mr. George Kent and Carrie Delora (Howard) Reedy in Harlan, Kentucky. She attended Union Hill Methodist Church. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, one brother George Kent Ready Jr., her father and mother-in-law, John Presley and Willie Florence Atkins, and sister-in-law Martha Jane (Atkins) Sargent. She was survived by her loving husband of 61 years, Boyd Atkins; son John Boyd Atkins Jr; daughter Brenda Kay Atkins; grandchildren Carly Elizabeth (Atkins) Binkley and husband Adam, Lindsay Myers Atkins, Boyd Atkins Shiver, Sydney Myers Shiver; sisters Rosemary (Reedy) Mahlkuch and Linda (Reedy) McCord McNiemeyer and her loving caregiver of many years, Francis Gibson. Barbara’s family was her most cherished gift. She and Boyd made certain the Christian faith and core values instilled in them as  children were passed on to their children. Barbara enjoyed entertaining family and friends in their mountain home in Hiawassee, Georgia, through the years, and always ensured there was enough food prepared for the next family member or friend who may arrive. Barbara enjoyed playing bridge, reading, dancing, gardening and cooking out with family and friends. 

A memorial service celebrating Barbara’s life will be held at 4:00 pm, Tuesday, June 18th  at Christ Independent Methodist Church  in Palatka , Florida with Rev. Amos Price officiating.  The family gratefully accepts flowers, or in lieu of flowers, donations be sent to a charity of your choice in memory of Barbara.  

Banister Funeral Home of Hiawassee, Georgia is in charge of arrangements.