Nona Faye Atkins

Nona Faye Atkins was born on March 28, 1950, in Millerville, Alabama, as the second child of the late Essie Lee and James “Jim” Townsend. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Eddie James “Hank” Atkins; her beloved brothers, Alfonso Adair Sr. and Donald Simmons; her sisters-in-law, Annie Ruth “Boo” Reed and Cora “Sister” Rucker. Nona “Faye” graduated from Goodwater High School in Goodwater, Alabama, and later pursued a career as a certified nursing assistant and phlebotomist. After moving to Atlanta, she met the love of her life, Eddie James “Hank” Atkins, and they married on March 8, 1982. Faye joined her husband at Vine City Baptist Church, where she dedicated countless hours to the church community, serving in roles like the President of Servant Care and church secretary. Faye was truly the heart and backbone of her family. To every child, she was “Grandma,” and to so many others, she was “Auntie.” She delighted in cooking for all and cherished every moment spent with the children who came through her door. Her heart overflowed with love, and her spirit was bright and contagious to everyone around her. Her home, filled with elephants (each with trunks lifted for luck), was a place of warmth and joy. She loved nights at the casino and was always ready for a lively game of spades. She was always the listening ear for anyone who needed it. On November 11, Nona “Faye” was called home to be with the Lord. She leaves her cherished memories to two daughters, Francine “Ceno” Kelly, and Shanetta “Tay” Atkins; two sons, Maurice Kelly and Robert “Chris” Kelly; and a host of beloved bonus children. She was a proud grandmother to seven grandchildren—Sheba, Robin (Braxton), Erika “Jazz,” Staci, Christopher, Neverlyn, and Eric (Brittany)—and cherished a host of bonus grandchildren. Faye was also blessed with 10 great-grandchildren. She is survived by her sister Tarneshia Searcy; brothers-in-law, Conrad (Gwen) Atkins Jr., Johnny (Linda) Gibbons, and Rev. Abraham (Delores) Gibbons; and her sisters-in-law Janie (Marcus) Earls, Penny Gibbons, Betty Carr, Catherine Gibbons, and Evangelist Mary Ellen. Her special friend, Mary Hankins. Faye also leaves behind a host of loving nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Tributes

Nona Faye Atkins

March 28, 1950 - November 11, 2024