Katherine Rook Hardiman "Kitty" Atkinson

1925 - 2021

ATKINSON, Katherine "Kitty" Rook Hardiman, born June 20, 1925, was peacefully claimed by her Lord on June 22, 2021. Kitty, the brightest light in every room, always greeted you with a happy smile and a warm hug -- she loved a good hug. She was born in Norfolk, Va. and attended William & Mary College. Kitty and Jim married in August of 1946 and celebrated their 74th anniversary last year. As a young woman, Kitty managed a home full of children, her four and many from the neighborhood, on a daily basis; skinned knees, lunches, snacks and hugs were plentiful. When her girls were older, she worked for the Nurses Professional Registry for several years as her home filled with grandchildren. A constant presence in the lives of her grandchildren, Kitty played a huge part in making them the caring adults they are today. Christmas was Kitty's favorite family time and "family" was not limited to blood relations. All were welcomed and included and offered a glass of her renowned "Granny's slush." She is referred to as "my second Mom" by so many, as her love and caring was felt by everyone she met. Kitty was preceded in death by her husband, James "Jim" Atkinson; her parents, Katherine and Lawrence Hardiman; and brother, Larry Hardiman. She is survived by her daughters, Kathy Love (David), Debbie Cantalupo (Frank), Barbra Björkholm (Tom) and Lynne Douglas (Tom); her sister, Nancy Hodgman; seven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild and numerous nieces and nephews. Your prayers are welcomed; in lieu of flowers, charitable gifts may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. A memorial service for both Kitty and Jim will be held at 11 a.m., September 14 at Second Baptist Church, 9614 River Rd., Richmond, Va. 23229.