Darlene Rae Atkinson
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Romans 8:38-39 NIV
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Darlene Atkinson, 81, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2024, with family at her bedside.
Darlene was born in Belleville, KS on December 14, 1942 to Harold Lloyd Steward and Dorothy Marie (Cochran) Steward.
She graduated from Miltonvale Wesleyan High School in 1960. She then moved to Emporia, Kansas and attended Newman Hospital School of Nursing. Darlene became a Registered Nurse in 1963.
Darlene met Leslie (Les) Paul Atkinson at the Free Methodist Church while attending school in Emporia. They were married May 25, 1963, and recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.
Darlene worked as a nurse in small hospitals for the next 6 years. They moved to Lawrence, KS in 1969. Darlene worked in Obstetrics at Lawrence Memorial Hospital until her retirement in 2007. Darlene loved nursing and enjoyed caring for three generations of mothers and babies as they delivered in Lawrence. She was often approached by women in the community who remembered her as their nurse and were thankful for her care.
Darlene became a Christian at age 13 and her faith in Christ was an important part of her life. Darlene and Les held numerous volunteer positions at Lawrence Free Methodist Church (now called River City Church). In particular, they enjoyed their time spent sponsoring many youth activities and trips.
Darlene was a dedicated and supportive mother, often adjusting her work schedule to be present for her children’s many activities. She was tireless in her commitment to attend music concerts, sporting events, and church functions, generally seated in the front row taking pictures. This dedication to her family extended to her grandchildren as she attended as many of their activities as possible. Even when she became physically unable to attend events, she kept up with their endeavors and made a point to let them know she was proud of them.
In retirement, Darlene and Les enjoyed several winters at Llano Grande Resort in Mercedes, TX. They were always on the go and enjoyed many activities and developed deep friendships during this time. In 2020, they moved to Lenexa, KS to be closer to family.
Darlene is survived by daughter Kimberly (Kyle) Tilley of Rogers, AR, daughter Denise (David) Alphson of Lenexa, KS, and son Brian (Lea) Atkinson of Bel Aire, KS; Grandchildren Kaitlin Tilley, Brennan (Lisa) Tilley, Brooke Tilley, Gabrielle Alphson, Calista Alphson, and Brody Atkinson; two great-grandchildren, Jackson and Elizabeth Tilley.
Darlene was preceded in death by her husband, Leslie Paul Atkinson, their first child, Cynthia Ranae Atkinson, her parents, and her brother, Marvin.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at River City Church, 3001 Lawrence Ave, Lawrence, KS 66047.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Kansas City Hospice & Palliative Care, ℅ Warren McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.
Jon and I send our heartfelt sympathy and love to all of Darlene’s family. We had a wonderful visit with her a couple years ago at OWU’s homecoming. She was so friendly and fun! Our connection with Darlene was this: Jon was Harold and Dorothy Steward’s pastor at her home church, Belleville Wesleyan in Belleville, KS from 1971-1976. Darlene was away from home then, but we knew and loved her parents and her brother, Marvin. May God comfort you in the loss of this wonderful Christian woman.
She is with the Lord. What a reunion your family will have some day.
Special condolences to the family of Darlene Steward Atkinson. I knew her from the Wesleyan Conference where my parents were friends with her parents. My Father had been their pastor at Bellville Wesleyan Church when she and I were babies. My parents loved and respected their family.
Darlene mentored me as a new obstetrics nurse in 1985 at Lawrence Memorial Hospital. She was my advocate & encouraged me to have confidence as a nurse. Her jovial approach to life & work will always be remembered. I am indebted to her for encouraging me in my profession & taking specific opportunities to bless me as a new wife and mother. Praying for you, her children and grandchildren. Your parents left a wonderful, Christian legacy. May God comfort you all in this season of bereavement.
Kim & Kyle, Denise & David, Brian & Lea and family,
Our deepest condolences to all of you at this difficult time. Know that your mother/mother in law/grandmother / great grandmother was so very proud of you!
Sending our love and prayers, may you find peace.
Sincerely Kelly & Dianne Gonser
I grew up with Darlene in the Belleville Wesleyan Church. She was a few years older, but our parents were the best of friends. I have a video of her family and mine having a picnic at the Belleville Park. I have fond memories of her. She was always very kind and cheerful. Over the last few years, we connected again on Facebook. It was interesting to hear of their travels and fun. I knew she wasn’t doing well lately. The family has my deepest sympathies. I am sure she will be missed. I know she must have been a wonderful mother.