Deacon Judith Ellen Atkins

Deacon Judith Atkins, 76, of Swanton, OH went to be with her lord and savior on April 22, 2023. She was born on August 20, 1946 in Edmore, MI to Lawrence and Leona (Hecksel) Nielsen and she married Pastor Ron Atkins.

Judy, or Izzie as she is fondly referred to from the Miss Michigan contest in Isabella County, dedicated her life to caring for people, especially through her ministries. She studied at Grand Valley University and Central Michigan University. Judy later served as an associate in ministry for several churches, including Edmore Lutheran Church, Trinity Lutheran Church in East Grand Rapids, MI, Christ the King Lutheran Church in West Chester, OH and most recently she served as deacon for Providence Lutheran Church in Holland, OH. She helped organize events as well as lead worship and constantly served as a teacher and Stephen Ministries Counselor. Judy was spunky, warm and faith-filled, with a wonderful sense of humor. She enjoyed knitting, canning, cooking, dehydrating fruits and vegetables, fishing, and growing herbs. Her favorite was popcorn! Her kind and devoted care for others, her generosity, devotion to faith, and her love for children and family will be deeply missed.

Judy is survived by her husband, Ron Atkins; children, Regina (Greg) Kruger and Caley (Shelly) Edgerly; grandchildren, Jack, Andrew, Samantha, Rosie, Erika Mae and Claire; as well as her beloved pets, Obie, Eli, and Grace the Parrot. She is preceded in death by her parents.

Friends are invited to gather and celebrate Judy’s life on Sunday, April 30, 2023 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. in Providence Lutheran Church, 8131 Airport Highway, Holland, OH 43528. A memorial service will follow the visitation at 5:00 pm. Burial will be held on Monday, May 1, 2023 at 10:30 am in Springfield Township Cemetery. Memorial contributions in Judy’s name may be directed to Providence Lutheran Church Vacation Bible School Fund or the Lucas County Humane Society.