Judy Birley Atkins
Obituary
Judith L. “Judy” (Birley) Atkins was born on June 30, 1945 in Decatur, IL to James Howard Birley and Virginia Lee (Newton) Birley. She passed away in Oklahoma City, OK on September 5, 2017 surrounded by her loving family and friends.
Judy was the loving wife of William B. “Bill” Atkins. They enjoyed almost 30 years together. During these 30 years Bill spent many days “Driving Miss Daisy” as they enjoyed visiting family and friends, exploring all corners of the country, 4-wheeling in the mountains, and just spending time together.
She grew up and attended school in the Berryhill area of Tulsa, OK graduating from Berryhill High School in 1963. She has several life-long friends from the Berryhill community with whom she remained close. The group of 5 is affectionately referred to as The Dinosaurs. After graduating high school Judy attended Tulsa Business School. Her career in Tulsa was with Metro Systems. She moved to Oklahoma City in 1984, where she resided until her untimely passing. Judy was passionate about helping individuals with disabilities to provide them with employment opportunities. She spent 25 years serving the people of Oklahoma by volunteering her time to various committees and associations as well as her long career with Galt Foundation.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a granddaughter, Brittany Atkins. Judy is survived by her husband, Bill of Oklahoma City, OK; one daughter, Elizabeth Busten-Bray and husband Wade of Jenks, OK; two step-children, Gordon Atkins and wife Dayna of Webster, TX and Sheri Rogers and husband Robert of Tomball, TX; four grandchildren, Cody Titterington, Breann Atkins, Andrea Rogers and Amber Rogers; one sister, Nancy Trip and husband Larry of Bandera, TX; one aunt, Fran Stout of Siloam Springs, AR; one niece, Melody Trip and husband Scott as well as many other loving cousins and dear friends.
Judy loved her family. Whether it was as Wife, Mom, Stepmom, Sis, Niece, Cousin or Nana, she was a blessing to and was loved by all.
For those wishing to make a donation in Judy’s memory the family requests these be made to Gideons International.
Events
Tributes & Memories
I still think of Judy as a young girl, with a ready smile. We spent many years at Berryhill School. It's not surprising how much she was loved throughout her years. My heartfelt condolences to her family. You'll be in my thoughts and prayers.
Judy Stone Madden
Thinking of you all during this difficult time. We just loved Mama Judy and will miss her dearly.
Mark and Tamara Scully
I watched Judy go through grade school, rainbow girls, and attended Red Fork Baptist Church with her and her family. My heart is grieving because of her loss. My condolences to the family. I loved her like my own child and will miss her sweet smile and loving personality. I am sorry I cannot attend the funeral, but I will be there in spirit. Louise Hadddock
Louise Haddock
My dear friend Judy was an example for all of us on how to be kind, gentle, loving and generous. Anyone who knew her admired her. Her loss will be felt be all. We love you and will miss you everyday.
Judy Goodwin
Judy and I attended Berryhill school together for many years. May she rest in peace.
David Morgan
It was a pleasure to know Judy. She was a very good boss and a friend to me and wife. To family I am so sorry may God be with family and friends she will be greatly missed
Gerry & LaDonna Luman
Sheri and family, sending my heartfelt condolences. I know she will be missed. Love, hugs and prayers to all.
Linda Cummins
I am so heartbroken to hear about Judy! What a beautiful and fine soul she was. Always so sweet with the greatest smile. She will be missed but fondly remembered. Deepest condolences to Liz and her family. Your onc family at OUMC love you and are praying for you!
Emily
I am so thankful "Mama Judy" was a part of my life. I dearly loved her - such a loving, fun person; words cannot express how much she will be missed. May God wrap his arms around her family and comfort them. Sending prayers out for peace and understanding. One day we will meet again "Therefore you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you." - John 16:22
Shelley Couser
I have been so blessed to have known her, and I so regret that it was for such a short time. "Mama Bench" opened her heart to us -- being around her was like having a big hug and a kick in the pants at the same time! Loved the stories, loved seeing her with "Papa Bench" and Liz -- loved her Love. And will truly miss her. Becky Poudrier
Becky Poudrier
We Loved Her SO MUCH. Oh Sissy I'll miss you
Nancy & Larry Trip
Oh the laughs & fun we had with Ma Kettle. Grew to love her in a short time, but felt like I knew her forever. I'll miss her so. Love & prayers to her family, who have quickly become my family.
Shawna Orr
Our thoughts and prayers for your family.
Valerie and David Edmiston