Deaconess Edith Crawley Atkins

On September 3, 1930, Edith P. Crawley was born in Charles City, VA, the eighth child of Andrew and Hattie “Kate” Crawley. In the peaceful, early morning hours of August 21, 2026, God whispered, “come lay down your heavy burdens and find rest for your weary soul”, and Edith Crawley Atkins answered, going home to be with the Lord and entered into eternal rest. She was preceded in death by her parents, her seven siblings, and her beloved husband of nearly 72 years, Edward L. Atkins, Sr. EDUCATION & LIFE’S WORK Following her graduation from Ruthville High School in the 1940s, Edith faithfully served her community in many roles. After performing local daywork, she became a reading and writing aide at Ruthville middle/high school, shared history as a plantation tour guide at Shirley Plantation and ultimately retired as a classroom aide from Barnetts Elementary School on June 14, 1991. FAITH & SERVICE From an early age, Edith’s life was deeply rooted in her faith. A dedicated servant of God, she actively served her church in numerous capacities over the years, as an usher, missionary, Sunday school teacher, and Vacation Bible School teacher. She was later ordained as a deaconess and faithfully elevated to senior Deaconess, serving her church, family with grace, devotion, and steadfast love. FAMILY & COMMUNITY On December 30, 1948, Edith was united in holy matrimony with the love of her life, Edward L. Atkins, Sr. Edith remained a devoted and caring wife until his passing on December 10, 2020. Together, they created a home that was a true sanctuary of hospitality—a place where family, friends, and neighbors could always drop by to sit, talk, and eat. Known for a heart that never met a stranger, Edith loved unconditionally and poured into everyone she knew. HER LEGACY She leaves to cherish her memory her two faithful sons, Edward “Junior” ( and devoted friend, Delores), and Marvin (Helen); nine grandchildren, Kevin, Marvin Jr., Monet, Sharonda, Terrell, Tracie, Crystal, Edward III, and Elvin; a host of great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild; a dedicated caretaker, Shivawn Cotman; and many cherished nieces and nephews, both by blood and by relationship. Though her presence will be deeply missed, her family finds peace and comfort in knowing she is no longer suffering, and is resting in eternal comfort with the Lord. A funeral service will be held 2PM Sunday, August 30, 2026, at Little Elam Baptist Church, 8840 Church Ln, Charles City, VA 23030. A viewing will be held one hour prior to services.

Deaconess Edith Crawley Atkins

September 3, 1930 - August 21, 2026