Emma Jean Atkinson

ATKINSON, Emma Jean, 84, of Chester, Va., passed peacefully on Wednesday, February 9, 2022.

She was born April 27, 1937 in Wilmington, N.C., the third of 14 children of James B. and Geneva E. Atkinson. In addition to her parents; Emma Jean was preceded in death by her brothers, Dawsey, Claude "Mack," Cecil, Robert, Durwin, Harry and Allen Atkinson; sisters, Josephine Rosati and Hester Cavenaugh; and granddaughter, Savannah West.

Emma Jean is survived by her children, Vickie West and Shelton West (Cindy); grandchildren, Angie McMillan (Eric), Ashley Waddell (Brian), Sean Chestnutt (Danielle); great-grandchildren, Lucas and Connor McMillan, Cannon and Miles Waddell, Natalie and Ian Chestnutt, and Preston Witt; father of their children, Alfred West; sisters, Nancy Whaley and Rosa Pierce (Charles); brothers, Lars Atkinson (Wanda), Lawrence "Shorty" Atkinson (Debbie), Vinnie Atkinson and Donald Atkinson; sisters-in-law, Gracie Atkinson and Erma Atkinson; many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

Emma Jean retired from the U.S. Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals, where she shared many fond memories with her co-workers. Emma Jean loved the Lord and was an active member in her church community where she enjoyed teaching children about Jesus. Emma Jean was joyous in nature and loved spending time playing with her grand and great-grandchildren. Emma Jean's love for butterflies could be found in every room of her home and she had a pin on every outfit she wore. You could either find her tending to her flowers or relaxing at the beach. Emma Jean's presence in each of our lives will be greatly missed.

The family will receive friends at 1 p.m. Sunday, February 13, 2022 at J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home, 3050 W. Hundred Rd., Chester, with funeral service following at 2 p.m. Condolences may be registered at jtmorriss.com.