Marie Atkins

Marie Atkins, a beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished member of the Selmer community, peacefully received her wings at home on August 27, 2026. Born on December 12, 1957, in Selmer, Tennessee, Marie was the daughter of Clinton and Mary Nell Hudson, who predeceased her, along with her husband, Charles Ray Atkins, her son, Charles T. Atkins, her brothers Clinton, Claudie Sr., Toby, and Timmy Hudson, her niece Tamatha Hudson, and a number of aunts and uncles. Marie’s life was a testament to love, family, and community. She graduated from McNairy Central High School in 1975 and went on to become known as the best biscuit maker at Hardee's in Selmer. Her work there was just a small part of her contribution to the community she so dearly loved. An active member of the Mary Lou Johnson Foundation and the NAACP, Marie served on the committee of the McNairy County Alumni Association and was a devoted usher and member at Prospect A.M.E Church of Selmer. Marie married Charles Ray Atkins on November 29, 1997, with whom she shared a beautiful life and raised seven children together. Their union was built on a foundation of love, laughter, and an unbreakable family bond. She is survived by her children: Brandy (Bernard) Strayhorn, Tywon (Shelly) Trice, Dominquie Atkins, Deborah (Jeff) Franklin, and Robert (Michelle) Atkins, all of Selmer, TN; Jerri (Jamison) Damron of Henrico, VA; Donna (Enrico) Dowdy of Medon, TN; and four special children: Claudie Jr. (Sunny) Hudson of Ramer, TN; John (Davidia) Hudson of Chattanooga, TN; Markettus Ross of Jackson, TN; Ivan Amos of Chicago, IL; and LaToyia Brown of Bolivar, TN. She also leaves behind her brother, Johnny (Diane) Hudson of Selmer, TN; her aunts Ina (Billy Fulton) Garret of Columbia, TN and Virginia Williams of Bethel Springs; 32 grandchildren; a host of great-grandchildren; special cousins; and dear friends Cassaundra Atkins, Judy Simmons, and Lachell Moore, all of Selmer, TN. Marie had a heart full of kindness and a spirit of generosity, always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Whether she was cheering at a basketball game or sharing daily scripture readings, her presence was a source of joy and comfort to those around her. She was a woman of deep faith, and her love for her family was unwavering. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched. Her family invites you to celebrate Marie's HOMEGOING CELEBRATION on September 4, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Prospect A.M.E Church, located at 1051 Purdy Rd. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Mary Lou Johnson Foundation, an organization close to Marie's heart. Also any flowers to be sent to Selmer Mortuary. Marie Atkins will be dearly missed, but her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.