Joan Elizabeth Atkins "Heaven gained the most beautiful angel when you left us."

After a sudden illness, Joan Atkins (83) passed away on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on December 9, 1941, in Jacksonville, Florida to Willard and Louise Burkhart. Joan was a remarkable woman full of grace and strength to all who knew her. She had a profound love and devotion for the Lord and her family.

Joan was a graduate of Landon High School (1959) in Jacksonville, Florida. She then attended Florida State her freshmen year and later transferred to MSCW (MUW) in Columbus, MS., where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education. She dedicated 30 years of her life to loving, educating, and shaping the minds of her students. She was highly respected among her peers and administrators and beloved by her students.

Upon retirement, Joan enjoyed traveling and camping (Friendly City RV Club) with her friends and family.

Joan married Henry Edward "Big Ed" Atkins on May 26, 1963, and was his devoted wife for sixty-two years.

She is survived by her husband Ed Atkins; her sisters- Willa Smith and Nancy Duncan; son- Scott (Mary) Atkins; daughter- Kristie (Danny) James; grandchildren- Kaley James, Jonathan Atkins, Kyndal James; great grandson- Theodore Nessel.

Pallbearers will be Dale Atkins, Zack Boyer, Tristan Nessel, David Atkins, Jonathan Atkins and Brantley Prescott. Honorary Pallbearers will be Stan Atkins, Kenny Crenshaw, Mark Dodson, Tommy McCafferty and Grady Prevost.

Visitation will be Saturday, November 22nd, at First Cumberland Presbyterian Church from 1:00 P.M. to 2:30 P.M. Funeral Service will be Saturday, November 22nd at 2:30 P.M. at First Cumberland Presbyterian Church with Rev. Luke Lawson officiating. Graveside will follow at Beersheba Cemetery in Columbus, MS. Lowndes Funeral Home, Columbus, MS will be directing.