Karen Susan Atkinson's Obituary
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Karen Susan Atkinson on November 10, 2024. She left this earth peacefully at the age of 81 to be with the Lord. Karen was born in Poplar Bluff Missouri on February 1st, 1943, to Emma Nell (Jones) and Harold Andrews. Karen’s father instructed her mother to move to St Petersburg if he didn’t return from war and that’s where Karen began and spent most of her life. Karen attended Northeast High School, then graduated with an RN degree from St Pete College. She was working as a nurse in Pensacola Florida when she met her husband James Doyle Atkinson. Through his 20-year career in the Marines, they lived in Virginia and Arizona before settling back in St Petersburg. Karen spent over 30 years as an RN with 20 years in home health care and retired after managing a healthcare office.
Karen had a passionate spirit for seasonal decorating. She not only joyfully decorated her home, she helped see her churches, Azalea Baptist and Park Street Baptist, were also adorned for Christmas and other holidays. Karen loved wearing bright colors and enjoyed having her nails done. Her happy, witty outlook shined even when her health was failing. She had many close friends across the country she kept in touch with. Karen was faithful in sending cards to all family and friends for birthdays and special occasions.
Karen was most passionate about her family whom she loved and supported unconditionally! Nothing made her happier than a family gathering and pictures of her grandchildren which she displayed proudly.
Karen was preceded in death by her parents and husband. Her surviving children are James Doyle (Lisa), Turin, Italy. Shane Andrew (Michelle) Smithville, Tennessee and Brent Tyler (Cathy) St Petersburg, Florida. Her surviving 5 grandchildren are Ciara, Carson, Micah, Poem and Darby.
Services will be Saturday, Nov 16 at 10:30 at Park Street Baptist, St Petersburg Florida
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