Andrea Atkinson

1984 - 2023

Andrea Atkinson

Loudon, NH - Andrea Lynn "Andy" Atkinson, 39, of Clough Pond Road in Loudon, NH, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, December 15, 2023 after setting an incredible example of strength, intellect, empathy, and humor as she fought a relentless set of autoimmune issues. She was able to fulfill her wish of becoming an organ donor so that even in death, she helped others.

Andrea was born October 19, 1984 in Bellevue, Nebraska to Bruce and Fay Atkinson. Andrea shared a deep bond with her parents and siblings, evident to anyone who spent any time with them. Together, they faced whatever life brought their way - be it a board game or a life-changing challenge - with curiosity, creativity, tenacity, and of course their special brand of humor.

Andrea was raised in New Hampshire. After graduating from Merrimack Valley High School, Andrea earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education from Plymouth State College in 2006. Music was Andrea's biggest passion, although she also enjoyed and showed great skill in drawing, painting, building, sewing and crafting.

Andy put her creativity, knowledge, and passion to work as a music and band teacher, including many years building and running Strafford School's band program. She also spent a year working at Loudon Elementary in addition to working as an early education teacher at local daycare centers. Andrea's enthusiasm and care for both the arts and the people who moved in her circles left impressions on her students, their parents, and fellow teachers that will far outlast her time with them. She is often credited for instilling a lasting love for musicianship in her students, and more importantly, for building confidence that helped them grow in all aspects of their lives.

Andrea's love for kids, however, was most evident in the way she tirelessly cared for her adored nieces and nephews, including Harrison, Zaya, and Connor Parker, and Ellarah Fessenden. Her constant love and support, as well as the laughter, creativity, and life lessons she brought into their lives, has helped shape them in profound ways.

She was also an animal lover, and showed unfailing generosity, patience, and love for her pets, particularly her beloved toy poodle Corbin, who was her constant companion for the last 13 years.

In addition to her parents, Andy is survived by her sisters, Tonya and Christina Atkinson. Tonya and Andy lived together for many years and shared an extra special bond. Andy also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will miss her dearly.

A celebration of Andy's life and potluck meal will be held at 11 a.m. on January 13, 2024, at Loudon Elementary School. The family welcomes Andy's family, friends, colleagues, and students to share their memories of her by speaking, playing a favorite instrument, or writing out a contribution to her legacy book. In lieu of flowers, Andy would have greatly appreciated donations of any amount to Old Dogs Go to Helen or Isaiah 61 Cafe in Laconia. Finally, in honor of Andy, please hug those you love and make sure they know how you feel about them every day.