Cynthia M. Atkins

In Loving Memory of Cynthia Atkins

Cynthia Atkins, devoted wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished member of the Westwood, Massachusetts community, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by the family she loved so fiercely. She shared 72 remarkable years of marriage with her beloved husband, Harvey Atkins, together creating a home and a life built on commitment, creativity, and deep connection.

A woman of unmistakable presence and energy, Cynthia lived with purpose, imagination, and conviction. She began her professional life as an interior designer, known for her discerning eye, bold ideas, and ability to create beauty and harmony in every space she touched. She later became a Home Economics educator, where she shared practical skills with warmth, humor, and high standards, leaving a lasting impression on the students she guided.

Cynthia was also an extraordinarily skilled tailor, creating beautifully crafted garments with artistry, precision, and flair. She poured love and expertise into each piece-particularly the formal dresses she made for her daughters and granddaughter-but some of her most stunning work was what she created for herself. Her family was continually in awe of her handcrafted wardrobe, each item a testament to her talent, creativity, and impeccable craftsmanship.

A lifelong gardener, Cynthia cultivated vibrant landscapes season after season, finding joy in color, form, texture, and the quiet rhythms of nature. She loved exploring the world, embracing travel with enthusiasm and curiosity. Known for her strong opinions and her determination to find solutions, Cynthia approached every challenge with directness, creativity, and confidence.

Her dedication extended far beyond her home. Cynthia was a founding and devoted member of Temple Beth David in Westwood, pouring her heart into helping build and sustain the spiritual community that meant so much to her and Harvey. She was also deeply committed to ensuring that local food banks were consistently supported, believing passionately in caring for neighbors and meeting the needs of the most vulnerable.

Cynthia is survived by her loving husband Harvey and their three daughters: Elizabeth Atkins and her husband Bob; Jane Starr and her husband Bill; and Margaret (Peggy) Munro and her husband Colin. She is also lovingly remembered by her grandchildren: Jacob Munro and his wife Kochava; Nathan Starr and his wife Allison, and their children Isaac and Levi; and Julia Starr Chang and her husband Anderson, and their daughter Emma; her sister, Deborah Brun and her brother, Sohier Marks.

She is predeceased by her son, Charles Atkins, who is remembered with enduring love by his husband Steve.

Cynthia leaves behind a legacy of community, creativity, conviction, and love. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Funeral services for Cynthia will be held on Monday, December 8 at Temple Beth David, 7 Clapboard Tree Road, Westwood at 11AM. Interment will follow immediately after at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA.

The family will host shiva at the home of Jaspard Harvey Atkins on Monday, Dec. 8th from 6-8pm as well as Tues. and Wed. from 6-8PM.

Donations in Cynthia's honor can be made to Temple Beth David, 7 Clapboard Tree Rd., Westwood, MA 02090 or to The Greater Boston Food Bank, 70 S. Bay Ave., Boston, MA 02118 or gbfb.org .

To be a part of the live stream from afar please follow this link: https://www.templebethdavid.net/livestream.html#