Marian June Atkinson

Marian June Atkinson, a devoted matriarch, faithful servant of Christ, and trailblazer, passed away August 27, 2026 leaving a profound legacy of love, family, and strength. Born in Topeka, Kansas, on January 28, 1926, Marian was the eldest of six children born to Earl Melvin and Anna Mae Alexander. From an early age, she brought immense joy to her family and naturally stepped into her role as a protective and caring big sister.

Growing up in Topeka, Marian attended local schools and graduated from Highland Park High School. Known for her strong work ethic and fierce independence, she entered the workforce during a historic era. Showing the determination that would define her life, Marian worked several essential jobs during World War II, including a notable position at Forbes Field Airforce Base. Breaking traditional gender barriers of the time, she confidently drove big rig trucks—a demanding role typically reserved for men—proving her resilience and capability early on.

Marian’s life changed forever when she met the love of her life, Richard Charles Atkinson Sr. The two shared a deep, unbreakable bond and were united in holy matrimony. Guided by their unwavering faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, they built a home centered on Christian values, love, and mutual respect. Together, they raised five beautiful children, instilling in them the same core values of faith and family.

A lifelong learner with an insatiable thirst for knowledge, Marian proved that it is never too late to pursue one's dreams. Later in life, while embracing her cherished role as a grandmother, she returned to school to further her education. Through hard work and dedication, she graduated with honors from Washburn University, earning her Bachelor’s degree. She then continued her academic journey, graduating with honors once again to earn her Master’s degree from the University of Kansas.

Marian was a true jack of all trades whose incredible talents brought joy to everyone around her. She was a master in the kitchen, known for baking the absolute best desserts. You knew you were super special if you ever received a holiday package of her legendary homemade Christmas candy, which included her famous fudge, peanut brittle, and homemade turtles. Marian was also a gifted seamstress; with her sharp eye and skillful hands, she could whip up a perfect pair of shorts from simple fabric scraps in just a matter of minutes.

Deeply rooted in her faith, Marian always had a heart to serve her community. She spent many years volunteering in local elections and dedicating her time as a steadfast servant of Christ. As one of Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church’s oldest members, her presence was a pillar of strength for her church family.

In 2024, she relocated to Leland, North Carolina, where she truly flourished. She quickly found a new spiritual home and continued to serve The Lord with joy at New Beginning Christian Church in Castle Hayne, North Carolina.

Marian’s greatest joy remained her extensive and growing family tree. She poured her heart into her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchild, creating a lifetime of cherished memories. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard Charles Atkinson Sr. whom she was married for 51 years; her parents, Earl Melvin and Anna Mae Alexander; her infant brother, Earl Alexander Jr.; her sisters, Norma Jane (Lester Lewis) and Earlene (Donald Redmon); her brother, Edward (Bobbie); and her cherished granddaughter, Malika.

Her legacy will live on through her five children: Delores Gatling, Richard Atkinson Jr. (Kathleen), Sondra Wilkerson (Bill), Frederic Atkinson (Cynthia), and Terrence Atkinson Sr. (Cheryl).She is also survived by her brother, Alan (Leigh); her 14 grandchildren: Lai' Tonia, Jessica, Alison (Jared), Rocco, Erin, Adrienne (Nate), Melany, Bradley, Jared (Jennifer), Quincy, Terrence Jr. (Camille), Alexander (Carin), and Austin; as well as her 14 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild, and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, church family, and dear friends.

The family will receive friends from 6:00pm to 8:00pm, Thursday, September 3, at Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 11:00am, Friday, September 4, at Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church. Inurnment will take place at 2:30pm, on Tuesday, September 8, at Leavenworth National Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest with her husband.

“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.” — John 14:1-3 (NKJV)